Southern Leyte Rep. Mercado named new DPWH chief

Rep. Roger Mercado is the new chief of the Department of Public Works and Highways. Photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer

TACLOBAN CITY — Rep. Roger Mercado of Southern Leyte has been appointed by President Duterte as the next secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Mercado replaced Mark Villar, who is running for senator in next year’s elections.

Mercado took his oath before Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on Wednesday, Oct. 13 morning.

Mercado has to abandon his reelection bid as congressman of Southern Leyte’s first district with his appointment.

His wife, Luz, is said to be running in his stead.

The Inquirer tried to get a statement from Mercado but has not received any response as of 2p.m.

His son, Maasin City Mayor Naccional Mercado, said his father would continue all the projects started by Villar under the Build, Build, Build program of the Duterte administration.

“Thank you, Mr. President, for the trust and confidence given to my father. We hope we made all you guys proud as a Southern Leyteño,” the city mayor said in a post on social media.