Metro Manila, Philippines – Former Sen. Francis Tolentino has been appointed to replace Bienvenido Laguesma as labor chief, the Palace announced on Monday, May 25.
Palace press officer Claire Castro said Tolentino takes his oath as acting Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) chief Monday afternoon.
Castro cited health reasons for replacing Laguesma, who has held the position since 2022.
Tolentino ran for another term in the 2025 midterm elections but failed to secure a seat.
His designation was after the one-year appointment ban on losing 2025 elections candidates lapsed earlier this month.
Tolentino, a lawyer, was senator from 2019 till 2025. He was a majority leader and previously chaired major committees including blue ribbon, which investigates corruption and irregularities in the government.
Tolentino will lead DOLE amid a number of pressing concerns such as the high cost of living amid low pay, employment quality, threat of artificial intelligence, worker protection, and labor migration.
