MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Tourism on Thursday, May 24, announced the designation of veteran official Arnold Gonzales as officer-in-charge of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).

The DOT said that Gonzales was “unanimously chosen” by the TPB Board of Directors, following the resignation of Cesar Montano.

Gonzales, 56, has been with the DOT and TPB for more than 30 years. He was assigned to various tourism posts in the Philippines and abroad.

Prior to his appointment, Gonzales served as OIC of the TPB the Domestic Promotions department.

In June, the Tourism Congress will convene to elect a new TPB head.

Montano tendered his resignation as TPB chief on Monday, May 21, amid the controversy over an P80-million sponsorship deal for the food tourism project Buhay Carinderia. (READ: ‘Buhay Carinderia’ gets P80M in a month under Cesar Montano)

In March 2017, TPB employees filed a complaint against Montano for allegedly “mismanaging” the board. – Rappler.com