The government appointment means Frederick Go has to leave the positions he holds in Robinsons Land Corporation. 

31 years after he joined Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) at the request of his late uncle, John Gokongwei Jr., Frederick Go has resigned as director, president, and CEO. His resignation is effective on January 8, 2024. He likewise resigned as chairman and board member of RL Commercial REIT Incorporated (RCR).

Go’s resignation is due to his appointment as Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. The position was created specifically for him by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to Rappler. Inquirer notes that the newly created position also confers a full cabinet secretary rank. 

Go’s cousin, Lance Gokongwei, will take over the positions he vacated. 

Frederick Go’s Role in Government 

Rappler explains that Go is meant to take over “some tasks previously held by finance and socioeconomic chiefs and will directly supervise crucial agencies, including the Department of Finance, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Budget and Management, Department of Trade and Industry, and other attached agencies.” 

“He will also sit as member of powerful boards, including the powerful NEDA Board, which approves big ticket infrastructure projects, and the Development Budget Coordination Committee, which is responsible for setting economic targets and projections,” it adds. 

What Go Can Bring to the Government and the Nation 

Frederick Go brings decades-long experience in business to his new position as economic czar. It will undoubtedly be a valuable asset as he begins his work as Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. 

He previously worked as a business reporter for The Manila Times. He eventually joined RLC in 1992 upon his uncle’s request. Rappler notes that at the time he joined the company, RLC only had five assets. 

Today, RLC has grown significantly under his leadership. It is one of the best-known real estate companies, with interests in residential properties, shopping malls, hotels, and office spaces.