Former Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III is set to step down as chairman of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taiwan on Monday, September 30. Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cheloy Garafil will replace him, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s endorsement.
The MECO board will convene to formalize the transition, as Garafil is set to take over leadership of the Philippine Representative Office in Taiwan.
Bello has held the MECO post since 2022, during which he was recognized for his efforts in fostering strong ties between the Filipino community and the broader Taiwanese society.
In a letter addressed to President Marcos, the Federation of Filipino Communities in Taiwan expressed its gratitude to Bello for his leadership, noting that he has been instrumental in addressing the needs and concerns of Filipinos living and working in Taiwan.
"(He) has been instrumental in fostering strong ties between the Filipino community and the broader Taiwanese society," the federation said.
"His work involved addressing the needs and concerns of Filipinos living and working in Taiwan, ensuring their rights are protected and promoting their welfare. Such efforts not only enhance the quality of life for individuals but also strengthen the cultural and social bonds between the two nations," it noted.
Cheloy Garafil, a lawyer and former journalist, is set to formally assume her role as MECO chair.
Prior to her government career, she worked as a reporter for several Philippine newspapers and Taiwan’s Central News Agency.
Garafil's appointment follows the recent promotion of Cesar Chavez as PCO chief, although it remains unclear if she has formally resigned from her position as PCO head.
The Federation of Filipino Communities in Taiwan, representing over 30 organizations of overseas Filipino workers and migrants, looks forward to continuing strong cooperation under Garafil's leadership.
