MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino announced on Tuesday, November 6, changes at the Department of Energy, a crucial government portfolio that has been assigned to newly appointed energy chief Jericho Petilla.

Assistant Secretary Ramon Allan Oca was promoted as Undersecretary, replacing Energy Undersecretary Jose Layug Jr.

Oca is 63 years old and had been assistant secretary in the department since 2008. He has been with the department since 1982, holding various positions.

No reason was provided for the changes, although Layug said months ago that he was ready to step down from the government post and focus on his teaching profession at a law school.

Layug marked his 2nd year in public office on November 5. His fate as well as that of Josefina Asirit's, niece of former Energy Secretary Rene Almendras, have been anticipated since Petilla's appointment was announced.

During his first press briefing with energy reporters on November 6, Petilla said he will bring in a 4-person transition team but none of them will be assigned to an undersecretary position.

Petilla admitted that Layug and Asirit have tendered their resignations, but he said he will announce his decision on these in a month's time.

Other appointments

President Aquino also announced other appointments:

• former Radio Philippines Network Inc. (RPN) general manager Jess Yu as acting assistant secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office
• Rosamarie Edillon and Mercedita Sombilla as acting directors IV of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), replacing Dennis Arroyo and Felizardo Virtucio Jr., respectively
• Melvin Navarro and Edgar Tabacon as directors III of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

- Rappler.com