Aquino names ad executive Jimenez as new tourism chief

Shortly after his arrival in China, President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday named advertising executive Ramon Jimenez as the new secretary of the Department of Tourism. In reaction to his appointment, Jimenez, in a text message to GMA News said: "I am very honored by the president's trust and confidence in me. I will do my best to finally achieve this dream to build a strong and profitable tourism industry that means business and jobs for the Filipino people." Jimenez is to replace Alberto Lim, whose resignation Aquino had accepted earlier, according to a report on dwIZ radio. Lim had announced his resignation in August, with his resignation taking effect Aug. 31. He cited stress and family concerns as his reasons for quitting. A separate report on dzXL radio quoted Aquino as saying he expects Jimenez to use his expertise in advertising to give the tourism industry a much-needed boost.

Jimenez is an advertising executive who helped in then Senator Benigno Aquino III's presidential campaign. Lim had described Jimenez as an expert in branding and had been an image builder of Aquino during his 2010 presidential run. Meanwhile, a separate report on Bombo Radyo said Aquino plans to talk to Jimenez this coming week after he returns from his state visit to China. On the other hand, the Bombo Radyo report said Aquino belied speculations he will appoint Lim to the Monetary Board. — LBG, GMA News