The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) welcomed the appointment by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of Kim Robert de Leon as the new Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management.
“Secretary de Leon’s appointment brings a fresh perspective to the Cabinet at an important time for the country’s fiscal and development agenda,” ULAP president and Quirino Governor Dax Cua said in a statement.
The ULAP President noted that while De Leon comes from the academe, he also has prior experience in government, having previously served in both the DBM and the Department of Transportation.
Governor Cua likewise recognized the new secretary’s academic and professional background, expressing optimism that these would contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen public expenditure management and support national development priorities.
“As preparations for the proposed 2027 national budget continue, we look forward to working with Secretary de Leon in advancing programs and policies that will respond to the needs and welfare of local government units and the communities they serve,” he added.
According to the Palace, De Leon is the youngest member of the Cabinet and the youngest to be appointed as budget secretary.
