MANILA, July 10, 2025 — The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has appointed Ruth Castelo, a former undersecretary at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), as its new spokesperson, the office confirmed Wednesday.
Castelo, a lawyer and long-time public servant, is stepping into the role with a clear directive from Vice President Sara Duterte — to focus on communicating the office’s programs and services, not to engage in political mudslinging.
“The instruction is very clear: I am not an attack dog,” Castelo stated during a media briefing. “My role is to report the initiatives and messages of the Office of the Vice President. I will not be launching any personal attacks on anyone.”
From Trade to the Vice Presidency
Castelo previously served as Undersecretary for the Consumer Protection Group at DTI. She left the agency after being placed on floating status, which she attributed to her involvement in a raid targeting a Davao-based steel company.
“I did what any honest government official would do. I authorized a lawful raid and was punished for it,” Castelo explained. “It was not a good parting with the department, but I was doing what was right.”
In early 2025, after her separation from DTI, she applied for any position at the OVP, seeing it as a way to continue her public service.
“Joining the Office of the Vice President is my way of giving back to the country,” she added.
Division of Communication Roles
While Castelo will serve as the primary voice on matters related to the OVP’s programs and community engagements, lawyer Michael Poa will handle all inquiries regarding the impeachment proceedings against Vice President Duterte.
This delineation of responsibilities ensures a focused and consistent communication strategy as the Vice President continues her domestic and international engagements amid ongoing political tensions.
Addressing Past Allegations
Castelo also addressed previous legal concerns. A case filed against her before the Office of the Ombudsman — citing grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, and abuse of authority — has since been dismissed, she confirmed.
“There are no pending cases against me. The Ombudsman has cleared those allegations,” she said, in response to public questions about her record.
Media Background and Public Service
Apart from her government service, Castelo is known in media circles as the former anchor of “Konsyumer Atbp,” a consumer education radio program aired on DZMM and DZBB. Her background in both law and media is expected to bolster the OVP’s outreach and transparency efforts.
