President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos has appointed three officials to serve as members of the caretaker committee during his scheduled attendance at the 46th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from May 26 to 27.
According to a statement from Malacañang released to the media, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Boying Remulla, and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III have been designated to oversee government operations in the President’s absence.
Marcos is scheduled to depart for Malaysia at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 25.
The announcement came just days after Marcos initiated a major Cabinet reorganization. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that the President had rejected his courtesy resignation and retained him in his current post.
Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Boying Remulla expressed openness to a possible reassignment or new role if directed by the President.
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, on the other hand, acknowledged and affirmed his commitment to carrying out the President’s directive.
In previous foreign trips, President Marcos had designated Vice President Sara Duterte as the government's caretaker. However, this time, Marcos opted to exclude Duterte.
Once united under the “Uniteam” banner, their alliance has shown signs of strain over recent months, particularly following differences in policy directions and political maneuvering ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
The 46th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia this week is expected to focus on regional security, economic cooperation, and strategic partnerships among Southeast Asian nations.
