Jay Ruiz moves to MECO as Marcos installs new Cabinet officials

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named former Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz as a new member of the Board of Directors of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), as part of a fresh round of Cabinet appointments.

“Si Secretary Jay po ay magiging miyembro po ng Board of Directors ng MECO,” Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro announced.

[Translation: Secretary Jay will be appointed as a member of the Board of Directors of MECO.]

Ruiz, who served nearly five months as PCO Secretary, expressed gratitude for the new assignment and reaffirmed his support for the administration.

“It has been an honor to lead the PCO in advancing transparency, timely information, and responsible public communication,” Ruiz said. “I will continue to wholeheartedly support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and his administration in realizing the aspirations of Bagong Pilipinas.”

Succeeding Ruiz as the new secretary of the PCO is Dave Gomez, a seasoned journalist and public relations executive. Gomez previously held key roles as Director General of the Philippine Information Agency and Communications Director at PMFTC Inc.

Meanwhile, Sharon Garin has been appointed as Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE). Garin previously served as Iloilo representative and DOE undersecretary, with a strong track record in energy policy and legislation.

“We look forward to their leadership as we strengthen government communications and secure our country’s energy needs under Bagong Pilipinas,” the Palace said.

The appointments are seen as part of the Marcos administration’s continuing efforts to refresh its leadership team.