MANILA — Malacañang has defended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appointment of Zofia Canlas as commissioner of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) amid questions over her affluent lifestyle, insisting that her experience in the agency and qualifications to serve outweigh her social standing.
Palace press officer Claire Castro said Tuesday that Canlas was no stranger to the PCUP, having previously served as chief of staff to the commission’s chairperson before her appointment as commissioner.
“Matagal na siyang parte ng Presidential Commission for Urban Poor. Dati na siyang chief of staff ng chairperson,” Castro said.
“So ang trabaho sa loob ng PCFU ay hindi na po bago kay Zofia Canlas,” she added, emphasizing Canlas’ familiarity with the agency’s operations and responsibilities.
The appointment has attracted public attention because of the apparent contrast between Canlas’ affluent lifestyle, as reflected in her social media posts featuring trips to luxury destinations in Europe and the United States, and the commission’s mandate to protect the interests of impoverished urban communities.
However, Castro maintained that wealth or social standing should not determine a person’s eligibility for public office, stressing that Marcos places greater importance on competence, dedication and willingness to serve.
“Mayaman ka? Maghihirap ka? Kung ikaw ay may kakayanan na magtrabaho, magsilbi para sa bayan, yan po ang numero uno para sa Pangulo,” she said.
“Ang taong totoo at dedikado, may dedikasyon na magpagsilbi sa bayan,” Castro added.
The Palace’s defense effectively dismissed the suggestion that Canlas’ privileged background should disqualify her from serving in an agency tasked with addressing the needs of some of the country’s most economically vulnerable sectors.
Canlas graduated from De La Salle University in 2024 with a degree in Biology, major in Medical Biology. She also entered the political arena as the first nominee of the Batang Quiapo party-list during the 2025 elections.
The PCUP serves as a vital link between the national government and urban poor communities, particularly in addressing concerns over affordable housing, relocation, access to essential services, and the protection of families threatened by eviction or demolition.
Its commissioners are expected to help advance policies and programs that safeguard the welfare and rights of marginalized urban residents, many of whom struggle with inadequate housing, insecure livelihoods and limited access to government assistance.
Following her oath-taking, Canlas expressed gratitude to Marcos for entrusting her with the position and pledged to work toward improving the living conditions of disadvantaged Filipinos.
While Malacañang has emphasized her previous government experience, Canlas now faces the challenge of demonstrating that her familiarity with the commission can translate into meaningful assistance and concrete improvements in the lives of the urban poor./PN
