Lotilla Named Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican, Cuna Appointed Acting DENR Chief
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Has appointed outgoing Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla as the Philippines’ next ambassador to the Holy See (Vatican), Malacañang announced on Friday, February 27, 2026. Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna has been designated as the acting secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), replacing Lotilla.
Lotilla’s New Role
The appointment of Lotilla as ambassador to the Vatican follows a period where he served as the alter ego of President Marcos Jr. In two different Cabinet positions. He initially served as Energy Secretary and was later moved to head the DENR in May 2025 according to Politiko. He reportedly sought a “lighter assignment” prior to this appointment.
Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro stated that Lotilla did not resign, nor was he asked to resign as reported by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Cuna Takes the Helm at DENR
Juan Miguel Cuna has been a part of the DENR since 2008, progressively advancing through the ranks. He most recently held the position of undersecretary for field operations in Luzon and Visayas and was similarly the supervising undersecretary for the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Luzon and Visayas, and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)-Luzon and Visayas as noted by Bilyonaryo.
The DENR has welcomed Cuna’s appointment, citing his extensive experience as a valuable asset to ongoing programs according to BusinessMirror.
Ray Thomas Kabigting, assistant director of the Forest Management Bureau, expressed expectations for “streamlined and structured governance” under Cuna’s leadership, highlighting Cuna’s focus and understanding of forestry concerns as reported by PNA.
Lotilla’s Previous Appointments and Commission on Appointments
Lotilla previously served as Energy Secretary from 2005 to 2007 under former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He was initially appointed to his first Cabinet post under President Marcos in July 2022.
Lotilla faced bypasses three times by the Commission on Appointments before Congress adjourned on December 30.