Manila, Feb. 27 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has designated Undersecretary Juan Miguel Cuna as acting secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) following the appointment of Secretary Raphael Lotilla as Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See.

Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified that Lotilla neither resigned nor was asked to submit his resignation.

Lotilla served as Energy secretary from 2022 until he was reassigned as head of the DENR in June 2025.

On Jan. 30, Malacanang announced it is reviewing Lotilla's appointment records to ensure all requirements are in order.

Lotilla's appointment was deemed bypassed three times, after the Commission on Appointments failed to a...