By Gabriela Baron
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has picked his lead physician Dr. Samuel Zacate to head the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Zacate is a known public advocate with years of expertise in medicine and medical consultancy in other government units and offices, including the Public Attorney’s Office, Presidential Security Group Hospital (2009-2022).
Prior to his appointment to the FDA, Zacate was a diplomate of the Philippine Society for Venerology and a fellow of the International College of Surgeons.
Meanwhile, Marcos Jr. also appointed Atty. Romando Artes as acting Chairperson of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
Other new appointees include:
- Retired Brigadier General Roman “Popong” Felix – Secretary, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs
- Retired Major General Ariel Caculitan – Undersecretary, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs
- Retired General Isagani Nerez – Undersecretary for Police Affairs
- Atty. Nesauro Firme – Judicial and Bar Council