Outgoing Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Aguda has broken his silence following his resignation from the Marcos administration, assuring the public that the agency’s operations and digital initiatives would continue despite the leadership change.
In a statement on Monday, Oct. 12, Aguda thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the opportunity to serve as DICT chief.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the trust and opportunity to have served as Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology,” Aguda said.
He also committed to ensuring a smooth transition, with essential government digital initiatives and operations safeguarded.
The statement came two days after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla disclosed during his radio program Executive Session on dzRH on Oct. 10 that Aguda had resigned and that Malacañang had accepted his resignation.
President Marcos subsequently confirmed Aguda’s resignation on Oct. 11, saying the administration had intended to announce the departure after identifying his replacement.
The resignation comes amid an ongoing Ombudsman investigation into alleged irregularities in government-funded internet connectivity projects, including payments for undelivered services and potentially overpriced equipment and software.
No finding of wrongdoing against Aguda has been established.
Aguda’s departure also follows criticism of the DICT over its temporary blocking of Discord in September, which was reversed following discussions with the platform.
Aguda assumed leadership of the DICT in March 2025, succeeding Ivan Uy.In his farewell statement, he expressed appreciation to DICT personnel and the Filipino public for their support.
“Serving the Filipino people through the advancement of our nation’s digital future has been a distinct honor,” he said.
