Ex-journalist named DSWD OIC

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Department of Social Welfare and Development Undersecretary Edu Punay, a former reporter, as the agency's officer-in-charge, Press Undersecretary Cheloy Garafil confirmed to Daily Tribune on Tuesday.

His designation came days after the Commission on Appointments bypassed the ad interim appointment of DSWD Erwin Tulfo for the second time.

Punay has been a reporter for over 20 years and covered Marcos's presidential campaign.

After Marcos won, Punay was appointed as DSWD undersecretary for special projects, which include the investigation of complaints against social workers.

Tulfo's status remains unclear, although Garafil told reporters that "an announcement will soon be made."

Tulfo had been bypassed by CA for the second time over issues on his citizenship and his libel conviction.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri previously said the former broadcaster failed provide enough proof that he has renounced his American citizenship.

He was also convicted of libel — a crime involving moral turpitude — which the Supreme Court affirmed in 2008.