New PCO chief ensures 'govt transparency, press freedom'br br Newly-appointed Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez vows to continue 'to promote government transparency, safeguard press freedom, and defend every citizen's right to free speech.' Gomez, who replaced former PCO chief Jay Ruiz, took his oath of office before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in a ceremony in Malacañang on July 11, 2025. Speaking to reporters, Gomez said that as PCO secretary, he would communicate and socialize the programs and policies of the President 'minus the politics.' 'Access to information is not a privilege - it's a cornerstone of accountability and public trust,' Gomez said during a media interview.