Marcos confirms he accepted DICT Secretary Aguda’s resignation after earlier denials; Lino Cayetano to replace Dave Gomez as communications chief
On October 11 Marcos confirmed he accepted DICT Secretary Henry Aguda’s resignation, saying the Palace had held back the announcement until it found a replacement; none has been named (Inquirer, GMA News, ABS-CBN). He also announced that PTV General Manager Lino Cayetano will replace Dave Gomez as head of the Presidential Communications Office. Gomez’s appointment was bypassed by the Commission on Appointments (Manila Times). The formal change comes after Marcos returns from Singapore (Inquirer, Philstar, Rappler).
The DICT runs internet, cybersecurity and digital government projects, and a vacancy at the top slows decisions. The communications office shapes how the Palace speaks to the public.
Government websites, online services and digital IDs run through the DICT. A new secretary may change priorities.
Quick replacements show the president acting on problems and keeping a functioning team.
The earlier denial and the delay in announcing the resignation raise questions about transparency.
The denial on October 7 and 8 and Sunday’s confirmation are a lesson in reading Palace statements carefully. Look for the name of the new DICT secretary and the Ombudsman’s findings.
DailyDrop Philippines edition No. 8 · Morning · MON., OCT. 12, 2026