Former BF Homes barangay chair gets HUDCC post

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday appointed Jeremy Marquez as a deputy secretary general of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, the latest celebrity appointee of the chief executive’s cabinet.

Duterte signed Marquez's appointment papers on August 10.

“Pursuant to the provisions of existing laws, you are hereby appointed deputy secretary general, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council,” the appointment paper read. “By virtue hereof, you may qualify and enter upon the performance of the duties of the office, furnishing this Office and the Civil Service Commission with copies of your oath of office.”

Marquez ran for vice mayor of Parañaque City  in 2016 under the Nacionalista Party but lost to Rico Golez.

Before his failed vice-mayoral bid, Marquez was a three-term village chief of BF Homes.

He served as a barangay kagawad of BF Homes before becoming its chief.

Jeremy is the son of Joey Marquez, a three-term mayor of Parañaque City and former comedian and athlete.

Jeremy obtained his bachelor’s degree in political science at De La Salle University in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

After winning as president of the league of villages of the city, he became an ex-officio member of Parañaque City’s council.

Jeremy Marquez had a short-lived career in the local movie and television industry before becoming a Parañaque City politician, appearing on several shows during that period.

He joins a slew of industry personalities whom Duterte appointed in the government.

Comedian Arnel Ignacio and singer Jimmy Bondoc were appointed to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation. Bondoc has since resigned.

Musician Ramon Jacinto was designated by the president as an adviser on economic affairs and information technology communications while actor Cesar Montano, appointed to a post in the Tourism Promotions Board, became embroiled in a controversy following alleged irregularities in his office.

The presidential palace has defended Duterte from criticisms that such appointees were not qualified for their posts.

Martin Andanar, a communications secretary, said that the president had reasons for his choices.

“If the president wishes to appoint anyone that he deems credible, then we leave the wisdom behind it to the President,” Andanar said in an interview with radio station dzRB in July.