Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Dita Angara-Mathay as secretary of the Department of Tourism, Malacañang announced on Friday, April 10.

Angara-Mathay, a career trade official, previously served as commercial counselor at the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo, where she worked with Japanese firms — a major source of investments and visitors to the Philippines.

Her appointment comes as the government seeks to strengthen tourism’s role in the economy, particularly in generating jobs and supporting regional development.

The Palace said Angara-Mathay has been involved in programs linking foreign partners with local industries, including efforts supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises.

She replaces Christina Garcia Frasco, who has been appointed as presidential adviser for sustainable and resilient communities.

Malacañang said Frasco will focus on implementing national programs at the local level, especially in areas vulnerable to climate-related risks.