January 21, 2023 – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Valenzuela 1st District Rep. Rex Gatchalian as the new head of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The appointment was made official during a ceremony held at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday, which coincided with the DSWD’s 72nd anniversary celebration.
Also Read: List of DSWD Programs, Projects and Services
Prior to his appointment to the Cabinet post, Gatchalian had served as representative of the first district of Valenzuela City in the House of Representatives, and mayor and congressman under the 14th and 15th Congress. He also worked as president of Waterfront Hotel and Casinos, board member for several private firms, and gained prominence for his social protection and disaster response programs.
Gatchalian graduated cum laude from George Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in political science, with secondary fields of study in marketing and psychology. His leadership skills were also recognized when Valenzuela City grabbed three spots in the Top 10 Outstanding Local Governance Programs at this year’s Galing Pook Awards — thanks to his initiatives such as “Valenzuela Live” program for digital earning, “Tagalag Fishing Village” project for livelihood and eco-tourism, and “Paspas Permit” online business permit application platform.
President Marcos expressed confidence that Gatchalian would be an effective leader for DSWD with his expertise in public service, management skills, innovative approach to problem-solving, economic development experience, and dedication to helping fellow Filipinos achieve their aspirations for progress.