PCO FILE

As President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. heads off for a one-day working visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key group of government officials will take the reins back home. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III have been appointed as the government caretakers during the President's trip, Malacañang confirmed on Monday.

A Quick Trip with Big Plans

Marcos’ UAE visit, set for Tuesday, is aimed at strengthening ties between the Philippines and the Gulf state. One of the key highlights of the trip will be a meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE. The two leaders are expected to sign agreements that will deepen cooperation between the two nations in areas like trade, investment, and possibly even labor.

Despite the significance of the visit, Marcos' accompanying delegation has been kept to a minimum. The focus is clear: get the job done and return home quickly. Why? The President is eager to get back to the Philippines, where he plans to oversee relief and reconstruction efforts in communities that have been devastated by six typhoons in quick succession.

The Caretaker Committee

While the President is abroad, the trio of Bersamin, Remulla, and Estrella will form the “caretaker committee.” Their role is to ensure that the government runs smoothly in his absence, continuing with day-to-day operations and addressing any urgent matters that may arise.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin will hold the fort at the highest level, stepping in for the President as the official point person for the administration. Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla will be in charge of legal matters and justice-related concerns, while Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III will focus on rural and agrarian issues during this brief period.

Why This Matters

While the President is away, it’s business as usual for the country. The appointment of these key officials to step up ensures that the wheels of government keep turning without interruption. For the Filipino people, this caretaker team offers a sense of continuity while Marcos is on a diplomatic mission abroad.