Christina Frasco Presidential Adviser appointment was announced after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. named the outgoing tourism chief to the new advisory role focusing on sustainable and resilient communities.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Christina Garcia Frasco as Presidential Adviser on Sustainable and Resilient Communities, signaling a transition from her role as secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT). The move marks a shift in Frasco’s responsibilities from leading the country’s tourism sector to focusing on programs aimed at building climate-resilient and sustainable communities across the Philippines.

The appointment was confirmed Thursday by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, who said Frasco will transition out of her position at the tourism department to assume the new advisory role under the Office of the President. The change forms part of the administration’s broader efforts to strengthen initiatives related to sustainability, disaster resilience, and community development.

Frasco, who has served as tourism chief since 2022 under the administration of Marcos, oversaw several campaigns aimed at promoting the Philippines as a global travel destination. During her tenure, the Department of Tourism rolled out programs designed to support local tourism industries, encourage domestic travel, and revive international arrivals following the pandemic’s impact on the sector.

As tourism secretary, Frasco spearheaded the “Love the Philippines” tourism branding campaign, which sought to highlight the country’s culture, natural attractions, and hospitality. The campaign was part of a broader strategy to boost visitor numbers and strengthen the tourism industry’s contribution to the national economy.

In her upcoming role, Frasco is expected to focus on policies and initiatives that promote sustainable development at the community level. These may include programs that integrate environmental protection, disaster preparedness, and inclusive economic growth, particularly in areas vulnerable to climate-related risks such as flooding, typhoons, and coastal erosion.

Government officials said the advisory position aims to support efforts to ensure that development projects across the country are resilient and environmentally responsible. The role is also expected to help coordinate initiatives among various government agencies, local government units, and community organizations.

The Philippines, which frequently experiences natural disasters due to its geographic location, has been strengthening programs designed to improve disaster readiness and climate adaptation. Officials have said that building resilient communities is a key priority to protect livelihoods, infrastructure, and local economies.

Frasco’s experience working with local governments and tourism stakeholders is seen as an advantage in addressing these challenges. Before joining the national government, she served as mayor of Liloan, Cebu, where she implemented several local development and tourism initiatives.

Malacañang has not yet announced who will permanently replace Frasco as tourism secretary. In the meantime, an officer-in-charge is expected to temporarily oversee the operations of the Department of Tourism to ensure continuity in its programs and services.

The administration has emphasized that strengthening resilience and sustainability will remain a central focus of its development agenda. With her new role, Frasco is expected to help guide national strategies aimed at fostering communities that are better prepared for environmental challenges while supporting long-term economic growth.