From top left, clockwise: Environment Secretary Gina Lopez, Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial, Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano and Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo
President Rodrigo Duterte has again appointed four Cabinet members recently bypassed by the Commission on Appointments.
According to the Office of the Executive Secretary, Duterte “issued ad interim appointments” for the following secretaries:
– Secretary Regina Paz Lopez, Department of Environment and Natural Resources
– Secretary Rafael Mariano, Department of Agrarian Reform
– Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Department of Social Welfare and Development
– Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial, Department of Health
Lopez has faced heavy opposition from the mining industry and its supporters.
Ubial has also faced controversy because of plans to distribute condoms in schools.
READ: Sotto: Ubial won’t get CA nod if DOH gives out condoms in schools
Meanwhile, Taguiwalo and Mariano are criticized for being connected with left-leaning groups.
READ: CA bypasses Lopez, 3 other secretaries
The Social Welfare Secretary also irked some congressmen during a budget hearing when she argued against them about pork barrel and budget allocations.
READ: Taguiwalo draws solons’ ire in House debate on budget
The nomination of the four Cabinet members were bypassed by the congressional Commission on Appointments last month.
Malacañang at that time said that Duterte was expected to reappoint the nominees.