Manila, Oct. 13 -- Former journalist and Transportation official Ramon "Mon" Ilagan has been appointed Undersecretary for Operations at the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

Communications Acting Secretary Dave Gomez confirmed the development to reporters Monday.

Gomez denied reports that Ilagan will replace current PCO Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, dismissing speculation of a shake-up in Malacanang's main communication arm.

Ilagan previously served as assistant secretary and spokesperson of the Department of Transportation.

Before entering government, he was a veteran reporter for ABS-CBN.

He also served as mayor of Cainta, Rizal from 2004 to 2013 and later became the spokesperson of former vice pres...