Solidum tops Cabinet pay in 2025 COA report
2 BILLION INVESTMENTS FOR AI: In a media interview Tuesday afternoon, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. revealed that the Philippines invested more than two (2) billion for artificial intelligence. Sectors, according to the DOST Chief, that have benefited AI research of the DOST include disaster risk and reduction, health, agriculture, advanced manufacturing and space. Photo by Sean Magbanua for DAILY TRIBUNE
Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. received the highest total salary and allowances among President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet members in 2025, according to a Commission on Audit (COA) report on salaries and allowances.
Based on the COA report, Solidum received a total of P6.66 million last year. He was followed by Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, who received P5.97 million in compensation, and Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, who earned P5.49 million.
On social media, some users reacted critically to the figures. One Facebook user wrote, “The second one is probably earning that much because they are being protected by politicians and businessmen to serve the interests of a selected few. That is why they seem indifferent to the struggles of minimum wage earners.”
The same user also alleged that Laguesma’s position was intended to keep officials silent, saying, “From the blood and sweat of taxpayers who earn meager wages, it is still difficult for them to access government support.”
Other commenters defended some officials, with one saying Solidum deserves his compensation, citing his background in disaster science and public service.
Solidum previously served as director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), where he played a key role in strengthening the country’s monitoring and warning systems for volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. He now leads the Department of Science and Technology’s efforts on disaster preparedness, research and innovation, and science and technology education, including climate and hazard resilience programs.
The COA report also includes compensation data for Cabinet officials, key government officers, and members of governing boards of government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs), including subsidiaries, water districts, state universities and colleges, and other agencies.
Three presidential advisers also appeared among the top earners: Presidential Adviser for Maritime Affairs Andres Centino with P5 million, former National Security Adviser Eduardo Año with P4.97 million, and Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon with P4.95 million.
COA said the report is prepared to monitor the compensation, allowances, and benefits received by government officials, including those holding multiple positions across agencies.