Politics

Goodbye, Frasco — Marcos Removes Tourism Secretary, Gives Her New Role as 'Community Adviser'

Tabloid PH Newsdesk

Mar 14, 2026 — 1 min read

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

It's official: Christina Garcia Frasco is out as Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT). Malacañang confirmed her exit on Thursday, ending a tenure that started back in June 2022 — and one that wasn't exactly controversy-free.

But before you think she's been totally kicked out of the Marcos administration, hold up. Frasco has been reassigned as Presidential Adviser for Sustainable and Resilient Communities. Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro explained that President Marcos wants Frasco to focus on strengthening national initiatives at the community level, especially as more areas face climate-related disasters.

While Marcos picks Frasco's replacement, Undersecretary Verna Burnsuceso will serve as officer in charge of the DOT. There's already buzz online na career diplomat Dita Angara-Mathay — currently the Philippines' commercial counselor in Tokyo — could be the next Tourism chief.

The writing had been on the wall for months. Frasco had been facing online bashing over DOT promotions that featured her face more prominently than the actual destinations she was supposed to be promoting. Critics accused her of self-promotion, and tourist arrival numbers lagged behind neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

Castro said Marcos "expressed his appreciation" for Frasco's service and is confident her experience with local governments will serve the administration well in her new role. Whether this is a graceful exit or a soft landing, one thing's clear — the DOT is getting a fresh start.

Source: The Manila Times

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2 Patay, 50 Families Nawalan ng Bahay sa Pasay Fire — Firefighters Hirap Pumasok sa Makikitid na Kalye

Viral TikToker Nag-Fake ng Disability Para Makasingit sa LRT — DSWD Says 'That's Illegal, Bes'

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64% ng Pinoy Gustong I-Ban ang Political Dynasties — But Mindanao Has a Different Take