Raphael “Popo” Lotilla, who has served as a Cabinet member under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. In two separate roles, is leaving his post as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The announcement was made by Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro on Friday, February 27.
New Role for Lotilla
Lotilla, a lawyer who previously served as energy chief, will now be the Philippines’ ambassador to the Holy Notice. According to Undersecretary Castro, Lotilla “did not resign nor was he made to resign.” He previously held the position of energy chief from 2005 to 2007 under former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Cuna Takes the Helm at DENR
Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna will replace Lotilla as DENR chief. Cuna has been with the DENR since 2008, progressing through the ranks to become undersecretary for field operations in Luzon and Visayas and supervising undersecretary for the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and Environmental Management Bureau in those regions.
Past Controversy for Incoming DENR Chief
In 2018, Cuna was ordered suspended for three months by the Ombudsman related to a 2013 shipment of trash from Canada. At that time, he was already an undersecretary and headed the Environmental Management Bureau. Prior to his work at DENR, Cuna taught law at Arellano and worked in the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office during the Joseph Estrada administration from 1998 to 2001.
The DENR has welcomed Cuna’s appointment, citing his extensive experience as a benefit to ongoing programs. Kabigting anticipates “streamlined and structured governance” under Cuna’s leadership.
Lotilla was initially appointed to the Marcos Cabinet in July 2022 and moved to the DENR in May 2025 as part of a planned Cabinet “revamp.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Raphael Lotilla’s new role?
Raphael Lotilla will serve as the Philippines’ ambassador to the Holy See.
Who is replacing Lotilla as DENR Secretary?
Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna is replacing Raphael Lotilla as DENR Secretary.
Was Lotilla asked to resign from his position?
According to Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro, Lotilla “did not resign nor was he made to resign.”
How will these changes impact the direction of environmental policy in the Philippines remains to be seen.
