The Commission on Audit's 2025 report reveals DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. as the highest-paid Cabinet member, receiving PHP 6.66 million in salary and allowances.
According to the Commission on Audit’s (COA) 2025 Report on Salaries and Allowances, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. received the highest total compensation among Cabinet members in 2025, amounting to PHP 6.66 million. He was followed by Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma with PHP 5.97 million, and Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian with PHP 5.49 million.
The top ten earners among the Cabinet also included Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. (Department of Agriculture) with PHP 5.2 million; Teodoro Herbosa (Department of Health) with PHP 5.16 million; Conrado Estrella III (Department of Agrarian Reform) with PHP 5.15 million; Andres Centino (Presidential Adviser for Maritime Concerns) with PHP 5 million; Eduardo Año (National Security Adviser) with PHP 4.97 million; Antonio Lagdameo, Jr. (Special Assistant to the President) with PHP 4.96 million; and Larry Gadon (Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation) with PHP 4.95 million.
The COA report monitors emoluments, personnel allowances, and benefits paid to high-ranking government officials across multiple government agencies. In addition to Cabinet secretaries, it covers principal officers and board members of Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), water districts, state universities and colleges, and other standalone agencies. This report aims to ensure transparency in the compensation of senior government personnel.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/986758/dost-chief-solidum-highest-paid-cabinet-secretary-in-2025/story/
