President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has appointed lawyer Lorenzo "Larry" Gadon as Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation, Malacañang announced on Monday, June 26.

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Gadon's appointment reflects the government's commitment to address one of the most pressing challenges faced by the nation.

"He will play a pivotal role in advising the President on strategies and policies aimed at combating poverty and improving the lives of the most vulnerable sectors of society," it said.

Gadon, who ran for senator under Marcos' UniTeam in 2022, is set to work closely with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to design and implement comprehensive programs to address the root causes of poverty.

"His wealth of experience as a corporate executive and legal counsel in diverse sectors, including manufacturing, information technology, realty development, healthcare, resorts and hotels, construction, and trading, will contribute to the formulation of innovative and sustainable poverty alleviation strategies," the PCO said.

Before his appointment, Gadon served as the Managing Partner of Gadon and Associates Law Office and an Associate at Antonio Abad and Associates Law Office.

The controversial no-nonsense lawyer, who obtained his Bachelor of Science in Management and his law degree from the Far Eastern University (FEU), is known for his legal expertise and extensive experience in various industries.

Gadon has held positions such as Chairman of APU, AsiaGroup Philippines, Vice President of Kolonwel Trading Corp., and director of esteemed institutions such as Our Lady of Lourdes International Medical Center and Perpetual Help Hospital.

Gadon is known to be close to Marcos, even soliciting a video message from the President for his birthday on March 1, which hinted that the lawyer might be joining his administration.

"Happy birthday, Larry. We should be celebrating this together. Nami-miss ko na yung luto mo (I miss your cooking)," Marcos said.

"But malapit ka na, tatawag-tawagan na kita at meron tayong maraming gagawin (But we're getting close. I will be calling you because there are many things we must do)," he added.

Source:
courtesy of MANILA BULLETIN

by ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

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