President Marcos has appointed former Interior and Local Government chief Mel Senen Sarmiento as presidential adviser on peace, reconciliation and unity, replacing Carlito Galvez Jr. who has retired. Galvez said he is stepping down to attend to his wife's health and spend more time with his family. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro stated that Sarmiento's background well equips him for the role.
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named Mel Senen Sarmiento, former Department of the Interior and Local Government secretary under Benigno Aquino III, as the new presidential adviser on peace, reconciliation and unity (OPAPRU). He replaces Carlito Galvez Jr., who has retired from the post.
In a statement, Galvez announced his departure from public office after 46 years of continuous service to the nation. “I shall step down from public office after 46 years of unbroken service to our nation. This decision is borne of a personal necessity to attend to the health of my wife and to devote myself to my family - a commitment that is, perhaps, long overdue,” Galvez said.
Galvez's retirement follows the resignation of Eduardo Año as national security adviser. Both served as Cabinet members during Rodrigo Duterte's presidency.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro noted that with security and normalization milestones in place, the process now requires civilian leadership focused on reconciliation, local governance, and socio-economic reintegration. “This is especially vital in the Bangsamoro as it moves toward its first parliamentary elections and the full realization of the Comprehensive Agreement,” she said at a press briefing. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to lasting peace and called on stakeholders to support Sarmiento.