Duterte names more cabinet members

DAYS before his inauguration, President Rodrigo Duterte bared the names of four more individuals who will join his Cabinet.

Duterte chose Health Assistant Secretary Paulyn Ubial to head the Department of Health, Wanda Teo as Tourism Secretary, businessman Ramon Lopez as Trade chief, and Regina Lopez as Environment Secretary.

Ramon Lopez was a top executive ofthe RFM Corporation handling strategic planning and business development, mergers and acquisitions. He was also the executive director of Go Negosyo, which promotes micro- and small-scale enterprises across the country.

Teo, owner of Mt. Apo Travel and Tours and president of the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies, is the sister of broadcaster and known Duterte supporter Ramon Tulfo.

The appointment of Regina Lopez, on the other hand, caused volatility in mining stocks as investors cautioned against her strong anti-mining stance.

Stock analysts said investor jitters may continue until Lopez presents her mining policies.

But Duterte’s spokesman, Ernesto Abella, quickly assured mining stakeholders that Lopez’ policies will be aligned with the president-elect’s position supporting responsible mining.

“The fact that she accepted it means that she is willing to adjust her position,” Abella said.

“The president is not anti-mining. He actually supports each and every venture that contributes to the health of the Philippine economy. What the president is demanding is that those who do that must be very careful,” he added.