Frasco out as tourism chiefNamed presidential adviser on climate changeMANILA, Philippines — Weeks after rumors circulated that President Marcos was looking for a new tourism chief, Malacañang announced yesterday that Secretary Christina Frasco has been named presidential adviser for sustainable and resilient communities. Frasco, who stirred controversy over the use of her photos on the covers of tourism promotion materials, will be replaced by Tourism Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso as officer-in-charge. “Secretary Frasco will transition from her role as secretary of tourism, where she led efforts to support tourism enterprises and livelihoods and to deepen partnerships with local governments nationwide,” Castro added. There had been speculations since January that Frasco, who was appointed in 2022, was on her way out of the tourism department supposedly because of weak visitor arrivals. The former tourism secretary also drew flak for allowing the publication of tourism promotional materials prominently showing her face.

Source: Philippine Star March 13, 2026 03:41 UTC