Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 26) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday appointed controversial lawyer Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon as presidential adviser for poverty alleviation.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Gadon will play a “pivotal role” in advising the president on strategies and policies to fight poverty and improve the plight of the most vulnerable sectors.
Gadon has the responsibility of designing and implementing programs that will address the root causes of poverty, which the PCO said will benefit from his experiences as corporate executive and legal counsel in various sectors.
“His appointment reflects the government’s commitment to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by our nation,” the PCO said.
Gadon was controversial for his statements against critics of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
In January 2022, the Supreme Court preventively suspended Gadon over his “abhorrent behavior” in a viral video, where he launched an expletive-laced rant against a woman journalist.
‘No love for poor’
Marcos naming Gadon as his adviser for poverty did not sit right with some progressive groups.
Anakbayan slammed Gadon’s appointment, saying he has “no love” for the poor and oppressed.“Tulad ng nagtalaga sa kaniya, parehas silang walang kahit na anong amor para sa mahihirap at inaapi,” Anakbayan national spokesperson Kate Almenzo said.[Translation: Like the one who appointed him, they have no love whatsoever for the poor and oppressed.]
Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino (BMP) President Luke Espiritu said with his appointment, Gadon should put forth his proposals to help alleviate poverty, particularly among the ranks of workers.
