Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. received the highest salary and allowances among Cabinet officials in 2025, according to the Commission on Audit’s latest report.
The COA 2025 Report on Salaries and Allowances showed Solidum earning P6.66 million for the year, placing him at the top of the list of Cabinet members.
Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma followed with P5.97 million in total compensation, while Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian ranked third with P5.49 million.
Other Cabinet officials in the top 10 included Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. with P5.2 million, Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa with P5.16 million, and Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III with P5.15 million.
Also on the list were President’s Adviser for Maritime Concerns Andres Centino (P5 million), National Security Adviser Eduardo Año (P4.97 million), Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. (P4.96 million), and Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Larry Gadon (P4.95 million).
Solicitor General Darlene Berberabe placed 11th with P4.92 million, followed by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. with P4.9 million. Former Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco ranked 13th with P4.89 million, while Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Secretary Arsenio Balisacan posted P4.88 million.
COA said the report covers salaries, allowances, and benefits received by high-ranking government officials, including those holding multiple positions in various agencies.
The audit body also includes data from heads and governing board members of government-owned and controlled corporations, water districts, state universities and colleges, and other national agencies.
Photo courtesy of DOST-STII
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