Politics · Philippines Bureau
SSS Chief Montes de Claro Appointed New DICT Secretary
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tapped Social Security System President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes de Claro to lead the Department of Information and Communications Technology, succeeding Henry Aguda who stepped down from the post.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — President Marcos announced the appointment on Tuesday, elevating Montes de Claro from his position at the SSS to helm the tech and communications agency. The move comes after Aguda's departure was formally acknowledged by the Chief Executive during a weekend press briefing.
Montes de Claro's appointment marks a significant leadership transition at DICT, the government agency tasked with overseeing the country's digital infrastructure and communications policy. His background in managing one of the Philippines' largest social security institutions is expected to bring fresh administrative perspectives to the technology department.
The new DICT secretary will assume responsibilities for key initiatives including broadband expansion, digital transformation programs, and cybersecurity policies affecting millions of Filipinos. As SSS head, Montes de Claro oversaw the operations of the government's primary social insurance institution serving workers nationwide.