Incoming President Rodrigo Duterte. KARLOS MANLUPIG/INQUIRER MINDANAO
DAVAO CITY – Whatever is happening in President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s first meeting with his Cabinet, it sure is highly confidential.
A source inside the building where the meeting is ongoing said only the initial composition of Duterte’s Cabinet was allowed inside the room.
READ: Duterte to hold first Cabinet meet at ‘Malacañang of the South’
Unlike in his previous meetings, protocols were stricter with those inside the meeting instructed to turn their mobile phones off.
The aides of Duterte’s Cabinet members and other personalities were restricted to the waiting area.
READ: More possible appointees to Duterte Cabinet arrive at guesthouse
Among those who are reportedly in the meeting are Las Piñas Rep. Mark Villar, Duterte’s choice for Public Works Secretary; Duterte’s security adviser Hermogenes Esperon; chosen Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea; Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas chair and former Anakpawis Rep. Rafael Mariano, who is being considered for the post of Agrarian Reform secretary; and former UP professor Judy Taguiwalo, who is being considered for the post of Social Welfare and Development secretary.
Duterte and the members of his Cabinet are expected to appear in a press conference after the meeting. JE
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