Malacañang on Thursday declined to confirm reports of a leadership change at the Department of Tourism (DOT), saying an announcement may be made on Friday.

During a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the public should wait for an official statement from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

When pressed if this meant there would be a change in leadership at the DOT, Castro said the Palace could neither confirm nor deny the reports for now.

“Pwedeng oo, pwedeng hindi. Magbibigay kami ng announcement tomorrow (It could be yes, it could be no. We will make an announcement tomorrow),” she said.

Castro also declined to comment on reports that trade diplomat Dita Angara-Mathay, currently the Philippines’ commercial counselor and special trade representative in Tokyo, could replace Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.

“Hindi po ako makapagbibigay ng anumang detalye. Hindi pa po ibinibigay sa akin ng papel kung mayroon man (I cannot provide any details. No document has been given to me yet).”

But when asked if Frasco still enjoys the President’s trust and confidence, Castro replied: “Sa ngayon, opo (As of now, yes).”

Castro said the Palace cannot preempt any possible announcement from the President.

“Hindi ko po pwedeng unahan kung ano ang magiging anunsyo ng Pangulo (I cannot get ahead of the President’s announcement),” she said.

Frasco has been serving as Tourism secretary since 2022.

The Department of Tourism has recently been under scrutiny following controversies surrounding tourism promotions and ongoing efforts to boost international visitor arrivals. (PNA)