RAMON N. GUICO JR. 

Yes, a brief manifestation. 

 As Head of the House Contingent to the Commission on Appointments, I join my esteemed colleagues in supporting the ad interim appointment of Atty. Karlo Alexei Bendigo Nograles as Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission. 

 Following thorough deliberations, we have found him to be excellent in moral character and with still a track record befitting the position.  We wish Atty. Nograles good luck as he undertakes the monumental task of leading the Civil Service Commission. 

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chair, it is my honor and privilege to stand before you today in joining the Chair of our Committee on the Interior and Local Government, Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero, to support the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Atty. Benjamin C. Abalos Jr. as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. 

Mr. Chair and distinguished colleagues, our appointee whose nickname was taken from the fictional hero Judah Ben Hur, has indeed grown to be "big and strong",  just as his grandmother envisioned him to be.

He is big on love for his family. He cherishes every moment that he can be with his spouse and is beautifully blessed with six (6) children. And this love, deeply rooted in the family, is seen in our appointee's big passion for public service and in helping the needy and the underprivileged, even in his private capacity.

Benhur and his family, in memory of his daughter, put up the Ciara Marie Abalos Foundation and has built school buildings in Laguna, Benguet, Mountain Province and many other places in the country. Just as he is big on love for his family and public service, our appointee is also strong at those, in more ways than one.

No doubt, he became the source of strength for his family during the most trying times of his father, the former COMELEC Chair Benjamin Abalos, Sr.  Moreover, our appointee is also the force behind the success of the City of Mandaluyong,  through his brand of governance, being touted as the New Tiger City of Metro Manila and the Second Most Vibrant City Economy in the Country. 

I personally know and have worked with our appointee during our stint at the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines. His dedication, hard work, and passion to be of service to the public earned him prestigious awards both locally and internationally. His public service accolades include: United Nations Public Service Award, Exemplary Humanitarian Service Award and Champion Activist of Children's Rights and Welfare, Local Government Luminary Award, and the Most Outstanding Mayor and Public Servant Award, to name a few. 

Our appointee, true to the nickname given to him by his grandmother, has accomplished a lot, and has made big contributions in championing the cause of the local government units. His strong conviction on "Deeds not Words" - "Gawa, Hindi Salita" is the brand of public service worthy of emulation, and one which any public servant or local government executive should aspire. 

Mr. Chair, distinguished colleagues, it is my honor to second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of "Benhur”, my kumpadre, and in more ways than one, Atty. Benjamin “Benhur” De Castro Abalos Jr., as the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

My Chair, and my esteemed colleagues, I am proud to make it of record my support and to second the motion on the recommendation of the Committee on Foreign Affairs for the Commission to give its consent to the nomination of Consul General Voltaire Dela Cruz Mauricio to the rank of Chief of Mission Class II.

Our nominee, known as Volts to many, electrifies the people around him in more ways than one, at least, with good ones.  The profile investigation report at least says, “he is an affectionate type of person who displays great deal of concern and sensitivity to the needs of others”.

His nickname Volts likewise speaks a lot about his energy and passion for work and public service.  He is credited for his notable supervision on the implementation of the Machine-Readable Passport and Visa Project, from 2003-2005, which is one of the biggest technological projects of the Department of Foreign Affairs.  He is likewise cited as First Secretary and Consul, Philippine Embassy in London and concurrent Permanent Representative Alternate for the United Nations International Maritime Organization from 2013-2019 for his various accomplishments.  

These are just two (2) of the many citations our nominee received throughout his career in the DFA and the list of his notable accomplishments will go on and on until several pages.  Truly, our nominee deserves this rank promotion.  

And so, Mr. Chair and distinguished colleagues, I second the recommendation that this Commission give its consent to the nomination of Consul General Voltaire Dela Cruz Mauricio to the rank of Chief of Mission Class II.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chair and my esteemed colleagues, this representation would like to second the motion on the recommendation for the Commission to give its consent to the nomination of Mr. Val Simon Taganas Roque, to the rank of Career Minister.

Mr. Roque has been noted, cited, and commended for his valuable works in the successful handling of various cases and repatriation efforts concerning our distressed Overseas Filipino Workers in Hong Kong and Thailand.

Our nominee’s passion and dedication to work and serve our fellow countrymen must have always occupied every moment of his everyday life, making him forget his love life, and remain single until today.  But don’t fret, single blessedness is a noble vocation just like a married life is.

Mr. Chair, my esteemed colleagues of this Body, I take pride of this very hardworking, competent, and intelligent diplomat and it is my privilege to second the recommendation for the Commission to give its consent to the nomination of Mr. Val Simon Taganas Roque, to the rank of Career Minister, I so move, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair and my fellow Members of the Commission, it is my great honor to support the confirmation of my -- of  a fellow Pangasinense who has the true heart for public service, the underprivileged, and the marginalized.  

Conrad as he is fondly called by many, I must say, is no ordinary Cabinet Secretary.  His stellar political career, starting from the barangay level and through successive positions at the provincial, regional, and national levels, is a testament of his sterling acumen to listen and know the deepest yearnings of the “common tao”.

Our appointee is dubbed as the “DARling of the DAR community” not only because of his Hollywood action star bearing, but precisely because of his generosity to use his first salary as “seed money” to provide educational assistance to finance the college education of the children of his co-workers.

I am certain that with Sec Conrad at the helm of DAR, the resolve to “provide social justice, and to free the farmers from the bondage of land” will not remain an elusive yearning.  In fact, he has recently launched DAR flagship special projects namely: Value-Chain Boosting, Land-Based Digitalization, Agrarian Reform Communities (ARC), Product Development and Standardization/Registration. The said projects will ensure better opportunities for our farmers in terms of agricultural production and building better market linkage for our agrarian reform beneficiaries.  

Indeed, our appointee is not just a technocrat, but one with a farmer’s heart.  The kind of agrarian reform leader we dearly need to ensure a better future for our farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries.

Mr. Chair and distinguished colleagues, it is for these reasons and more that I second the motion for the Commission to confirm the ad interim appointment of Conrado Masonsong Estrella III, as Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform, I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chair and fellow Members of the Commission, this representation would just like to spread into the records my support for the confirmation of the ad interim   appointment of Ma. Esperanza Christina Codilla Frasco as Secretary of the Department of Tourism.

  The Department has been traditionally a home to Secretaries with great looks and brains combined.  Our appointee, I must say, perfectly fits that mold of beauty, brain, creativity, energy and charm, qualities  which our Tourism Department need as we bounce back from the pandemic. 

With her commitment to pursue the tourism program, I look forward to her close strategic coordination with the national and local offices including the private stakeholders.  I believe she will ensure the equal promotion and development  of all the tourist destinations across the country.  

Madam Secretary, sana mas lalo pa po n’yo ma-promote din ang mga tourist spots ng Norte, which are equally beautiful to those in the South.  

Without further ado, Mr. Chair, dear colleagues, it is my honor to second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointment of Ma. Esperanza Christina Codilla Frasco as Secretary of the Department of Tourism.

I so move, Mr. Chair.  

Mr. Chair and dear colleagues of this august Body, our appointee is not new to the works of fiscal management having served in various significant capacities during her stints as Undersecretary in the DBM and later  as  Assistant  Governor  in the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

She has been cited for her works in the review and finalization of the year-to-year proposed General Appropriations Act submitted to the Office of the President, the Senate and the House of the Representatives as the annual National Expenditure Program.  Moreover, she was recognized as the key implementer of the BSP’s strategic initiatives bringing the Central Bank closer to the Filipino people.

Mr. Chair, dear colleagues, it is my privilege to second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointment of Ms. Amenah Flaminiano Pangandaman, as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management.

I so move, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, dear colleagues, this representation would just like to spread into the records my utmost support, and to second the motion for the Commision to give its consent on the nominations of the twenty-three (23) Department of Foreign Affairs’ Ambassadors and Officers under consideration by this august Body.

Mr. Chair, just a quick manifestation.  It is my fervent prayer that our Ambassadors and Officers will keep in mind the strategic recommendations of our dear colleagues during our Committee meetings for the interest of the Filipinos abroad and our nation.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair and fellow Members of this Commission, our appointee is a dedicated engineer and very qualified to lead the Department of Public Works and Highways.

His humble beginning, from an engineering aide to senior undersecretary of DPWH and executive positions in the private sector, proved his dedication to his chosen profession and commitment to share his knowledge and expertise with the Filipino nation.

Under his keen watch, I anticipate his implementation of the Baselined, Balanced and Managed (BBM) Parametric Formula, which will allocate an equitable budget to all legislative districts of our country and be true to the holistic goal of the government that no one will be left behind.

With his devotedness, Mr. Chair, and dear colleagues, it is with great pride that I second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointment of my fellow Public Servant from Region I, Engineer MANUEL MANLIGAS BONOAN as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Thank you.

I join the Committee Chair in supporting the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Benjamin Estoista Diokno, as Secretary of the Department of Finance.

Mr. Chair and dear colleagues of the Commission on Appointments, our appointee is an economist who possesses a potent combination of experience in the world of finance and extensive knowledge in the field of Economics.

His career service in the government for seventeen (17) years has been impeccable.  He served as Department of Budget and Management Secretary from June 2016 to March 2019.  He was the Chair of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Monetary Board and later served as the Governor of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.  Aside from his impressive accomplishments, he also authored various discussion papers related to Fiscal Policy, Taxes, Debt, and Budget.

Indeed, Secretary Diokno is best suited for the job and I second the motion to confirm his ad interim appointment as Secretary of the Department of Finance.

Thank you.

Good afternoon, Mr. Chair and Honorable Members of the Commission on Appointments.  

It is my honor to express my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of our appointee’s appointment as Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.

Secretary Maria Susana Vasquez Ople is a notable media practitioner and a professional writer.  In her capacity as Undersecretary of the Department of Labor and Employment from 2004 to 2006, she had championed the protection of workers and the promotion of their welfare.  She was a resource person called by the House of Representatives and Philippine Senate in crafting  legislations to protect the rights of migrant workers.

She was also cited as the first Filipino to have been appointed to the Board of Trustees of the United Nations Voluntary Trust Fund to assist victims of human trafficking. Among her various accomplishments, I regard her fight against human trafficking as the most notable.  This advocacy to eradicate human trafficking speaks highly of her genuine care for humanity and to end modern slavery.

I commend her unwavering efforts and initiative to promote the well-being of migrant workers.  And, I firmly believe that there is no one who is better suited for the job other than Secretary Ople.

In this light, Mr. Chair, I take this opportunity to declare my complete trust and full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Maria Susana Vasquez Ople as Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.

I so moved, Mr. Chair. 

“Mr. Chair, Honorable Members of the Commission on Appointments, good day. 

It is with great pride that I share the reasons why I support our appointee's confirmation of his appointment as Secretary of the Department of Energy.

Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Mercado Lotilla is widely admired by his colleagues in the legal profession and his subordinates for his outstanding work ethics and untainted reputation as a public servant.

His previous experience as the Secretary of the Department of Energy in 2005 further amplifies his merits. He was responsible for leading the Department towards the goal of energy independence and power sector reform, particularly the initial privatization of the state-owned generation capacity in Luzon and Visayas.

Most importantly, Secretary Lotilla is not new to this role. I am, therefore, optimistic that he will continue to develop goals and make strategic plans for the Energy Department to better address the pressing needs of the consumers. And so, Mr. Chair, I move for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary of the Department of Energy.

Thank you.”

“Mr. Chair, and Members of the Commission on Appointments, once again good afternoon.

Considering their education and length of service in the Department of Foreign Affairs, I trust that the sixty (60) DFA Officials are fit for their positions.  Records show that the sixty (60) DFA Officials, who are accomplished individuals in their chosen fields, possess the right personality for their jobs.  I hope and I am optimistic that they will continue to pursue our Philippine Foreign Policy and protect our national interests.

I also extend my congratulations and hereby express my trust and confidence to my pamangkin, Evangelina Lourdes Arroyo Bernas, with the position of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Austria, with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Croatia, Republic of Slovenia and Slovak Republic.

I therefore move for the confirmation of appointment of the sixty (60) Foreign Officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

I so move, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, and members of the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

Judging by his achievements, Secretary Acuzar is a true embodiment of a highly competent person in the field of urban planning, building construction and management.  Indeed, results never lie.  His expertise and success in the real estate industry will be of great value in finding solutions to the combined issues related to human settlements, particularly urbanization, climate change, and public health.

Also, the Secretary’s plan to construct inter-city housing projects and his aim to achieve Zero Informal Settler Family deserve my support.  And so, Mr. Chair, I second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. JOSE RIZALINO L. ACUZAR, as Secretary of the Department  of   Human  Settlements   and Urban Development.”

Good afternoon, Mr. Chair, and Honorable Members of the Commission on Appointments.

Commissioner Celis is also a necessary addition to the COMELEC for having the technical knowledge in the field of electronics and communication.  I am hopeful that with his contribution, we will be more assured that this country will have safe and free elections in the years to come.  

I therefore declare my full support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Nelson Java Celis as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections.

I so move.

“Mr. Chair, and Members of the Commission on Appointments, allow me to give my nod of approval to the six (6) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Based on their records and answers during the deliberation, I am certain that the subject officials will do well in their duties for our country.  Their educational attainment coupled with experience gathered from years of service in the government will enable them to competently represent our nation in matters of foreign affairs.

In this light, Mr. Chair, I second the motion for the confirmation of appointment of the six officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs.”

Thank you.  

Mr. Chair and dear colleagues of the Commission, Secretary Pascual is a well-rounded individual who held various important positions both in the government and in the private sector.  His education and experience as a banker, financial expert, and educator will help him deliver his priority plans to fulfill the primary mandates of the DTI in creating jobs, supporting businesses, and protecting the consumers.

I also support his advocacy to reduce processing time of all public transactions, and guarantee accessible and convenient delivery of the Department’s services to the public.

All things considered, I second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointment of Mr. Alfredo Pascual as Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Congratulations.

Mr. Chair and esteemed Members of the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is with great pride that I express my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of my distant relative by affinity, Sec. Cheloy Estavillo Velicaria-Garafil.  I truly believe that she will continue to succeed in her role as Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office for various reasons.

She is a journalist and a lawyer.  Combining her knowledge in both fields of journalism and law, she then decided to pursue a career as a Public Relations Practitioner.  Secretary Velicaria-Garafil is known as a dedicated, and competent government official.  She has a strong understanding of ethics, communications, and interpersonal skills.  As a media practitioner herself, I trust that she can effectively deliver the government’s message to the public.

Thus, I second the motion for the confirmation of her appointment, Mr. Chair.  

Thank you.

Mr. Chair and Honorable Members of the Commission on Appointments, I give my support for the consent and confirmation of the nomination and ad interim appointments of the three (3) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs.  I find their credentials, work experiences, and qualifications as more than sufficient to help them fulfill their duties in matters of foreign affairs.

I acknowledge Mr. Manuel Antonio Javier Teehankee, as Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva Switzerland, for his stellar academic background.  He is an accomplished professor and a lawyer as well as a prolific writer.   He possessed the hunger for learning, which is one of the marks of a true leader.

In this light, I second the motion for the consent and confirmation of their nomination and ad interim appointments, Mr. Chair. 

Mr. Chair and honorable Members of the Commission, I am giving utmost support for the confirmation of the appointments of the forty-nine (49) Military Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines under the Department of National Defense.  They have been proven, after thorough scrutiny, to be capable of the responsibilities required of their appointed positions.

I am confident that these Officers will fully exercise their duties and responsibilities to the best of their ability, considering the critical role they will play in the effective defense of our country against various elements that threaten it.

Moreover, it is with great pride that I acknowledge the following Military Officers hailing from Pangasinan, namely:  Maj. Gen. Rogelio Dasalia Ulanday; Col. Alfredo Esteves Vicente II; Col. Jimmy Viado Jimenez; Col. Joseph Fos Manangan; Col. Romel Discarga Dacanay, making our beloved province proud of your achievements.

As such, let it be known that I second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointments of these Officers.

I so move, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, I hereby signify my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the forty-nine (49) military Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines under the Department of National Defense. They have been found to possess the requisite professional experience and history of exemplary service to merit the approval of the Commission on Appointments.

The forty-nine (49) appointees who stand before us today have gone above and beyond their call-of-duty to prove themselves worthy of the positions they have been appointed to, and I am convinced that they will continue to serve the country with much skill and ardor, which of course, will ultimately redound to the greater benefit of the Filipino people.

Moreover, allow me to express my great pride for the following Officers from the Province of Pangasinan, they are: Col. Ronaldo Gando Valdez and also Col. Aldrich Raymund Abalos Fernandez.

Considering all of this, I second the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the forty-nine (49) military Officers to their respective ranks under the Department of National Defense.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, I wish to acknowledge the military Officers of the Department of National Defense present today and express my wholehearted support for the confirmation of their ad interim appointments.

Let me commend dagiti natutured nga suldado nga annak ti probinsya nga Pangasinan, namely:

1. Col. Claro Malicdem Tamayo Jr.

2. Col. Edgar Allan Bongolan Orbito

3. Col. Elanio Eway Somera

I believe that they will act to the best interest of the country and in line with the social and moral obligations expected of them.

I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the eighty-six (86) appointees under the Department of National Defense.

Thank you and good afternoon, Mr. Chair.

Good afternoon, Mr. Chair.

It is my honor to signify my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr. under the Department of National Defense.

We have received numerous commendations for valor, admirable services, and life-saving acts.  Indeed, they have proven to be very capable of assuming the duties and responsibilities of their respective positions.

Considering this, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. under the Department of National Defense.  Dios ti agngina kadakayo ken ti pamilya yu.

Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, esteemed colleagues.

I hereby signify my support for the confirmation of Atty. Erlinda Piñera Uy, as Member of the Judicial and Bar Council, representing the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.

She has been highly regarded as possessing the requisite professional experience, leadership, and history of exemplary public service to merit the approval of the Commission on Appointments.  

As a fellow Binaloñan, I am elated with her achievements in the Judiciary.  Indeed, she is a true pride of our humble hometown and an inspiration to our kaillians, especially our youths.

Therefore, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Atty. Erlinda Piñera Uy, as Member of the Judicial and Bar Council, representing the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.

Thank you, and good afternoon.

“I support the motion for the Commission to give its consent to the nominations of the nine (9) nominees and the confirmation of the ad  interim appointments of two (2) appointees under the Department of National Defense. 

Under the scrutiny of the Commission on Appointments, we have found  them to be of sufficient professional experience and good moral character. I  have no doubt that the continued services of such capable men will do a  remarkable job protecting the Filipinos, our nation, and their institution. 

As such, I second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments and for the consent on the nominations of these gentlemen to their  respective positions. 

Thank you, and good afternoon.”

Mr. Chair, esteemed colleagues, I hereby manifest my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture.

We have found him to be of excellent moral standing and superb professional experience, which is necessary to fully exercise the duties and responsibilities inherent to the position. I have faith that he will lead the department’s battlecry, “Masaganang Agrikultura, Maunlad na Ekonomiya” with the utmost vigor and diligence and champion the welfare of Filipino farmers and fisherfolks.

Therefore, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. as our new Secretary of Agriculture.

Thank you and good afternoon.

Thank you, Mr. Chair and esteemed colleagues.

I stand to support the confirmation of the eight (8) Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs.  Their dedication in advancing our nation’s interest and fostering international cooperations is crucial in today’s interconnected world.  Their swift confirmation will strengthen our diplomatic efforts and promote positive relationships with our international partners.

As such, I second the nominations and ad interim appointments of these eight (8) Officials to their respective positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Thank you, Mr. Chair. 

Esteemed colleagues of the Commission on Appointments, well I told Cong. Rodante Marcoleta na unahin mo na lahat yung mga Senador, sabi ko, ‘di bale kaming mga Congressmen na mahuli na lang at sa nakikita ko, well matagal  na ring nakatayo si Secretary Recto kaya medyo iksian ko na lang ito. 

I rise to second the motion to confirm the ad interim appointment of Secretary Ralph Gonzales Recto as Secretary of the Department of Finance. Secretary Recto's commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive economic development is commendable. In these challenging times, we need a leader like Secretary Recto who can navigate the complexities of our economic landscape with agility and foresight. His track record and dedication make him the perfect choice to lead the Department of Finance. Therefore, I wholeheartedly second the motion for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment.  I am  confident in his ability to manage our government resources in pursuit of a better economy.

Thank you and good afternoon.

Thank you, Mr. Chair, esteemed colleagues in the Commission on Appointments.  

I stand in support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of these DFA Officials under consideration.  Their drive to advance our country’s interests on the global stage has been exemplary as evidenced by their impressive track records.  With their expertise, I anticipate the promotion, attainment, and advocacy of our national interest as we carry through the sustainable development diplomacy with other nations.

With that, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of these sixteen (16) Officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs.  

Thank you and good afternoon.

Mr. Chair, honorable Members of the Commission on Appointments, I hereby manifest my support for the confirmation of Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara as the new Secretary of the Department of Education. 

Senator Angara's wealth of experience and passion for educational reform makes him well-suited to lead the Department's effort to drive transformative changes. Under his leadership, I believe that we can continue to improve education outcomes to help our youth secure their own future.

As such, hereby second the confirmation of Sen. Sonny Angara as our new Secretary of Education.

Thank you and good afternoon.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Esteemed colleagues of the Commission on Appointments, I rise to manifest my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Secretary Hans Leo Javier Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers. He is a staunch advocate for the rights and welfare of migrant workers, with a deep understanding of migration dynamics.

Sec. Cadac's leadership is poised to have a profound impact on the lives of millions of overseas Filipino workers who contribute significantly to our nation's development.

Therefore, I second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Sec. Hans Leo Javier Cacdac as Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.

Thank you and Godspeed!

“Good afternoon, esteemed colleagues.  

I express my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Jose Vicencio Mejia as Member, Representing the Private Sector in the Judicial and Bar Council.  

His previous tenure as a JBC Member, Representing the Academe, showcased his dedication in ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process for judicial appointees.  As a reform-minded leader, I am certain that his appointment serves to benefit the JBC.

Therefore, I hereby second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Jose Vicencio Mejia as Member, Representing the Private Sector, in the JBC.”

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Esteemed on colleagues of the Commission Appointments, I rise in support of Sec. Juanito Victor Remulla's confirmation as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government. His decades of public service, including his outstanding tenure as Governor of Cavite, highlight his ability to implement meaningful reforms, promote disaster resilience, and foster strong local governance. His leadership in driving digital transformation and improving administrative processes has set a strong example for effective public service, making him well-qualified to lead the department.

Therefore, I hereby second the confirmation of Sec. Juanito Victor Catibayan Remulla as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Thank you and good afternoon.

“Honorable colleagues, I rise to second the motion confirming the ad interim appointment of Ms. Ma. Cristina A. Roque as Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.  Her appointment comes at a critical time when strong leadership is needed to enhance the resilience of our industries, support micro, small, and medium enterprises, and strengthen the Philippines' standing in regional and global trade. 

Therefore,   I   hereby    second    the  confirmation  of  the ad interim appointment of Ms. Ma. Cristina A. Roque as Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Thank you.”

 “Mr. Chair, distinguished colleagues,

I rise to second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of these officials from the Department of National Defense.  These appointees have demonstrated not only their expertise but also the vision and decisiveness needed to guide our defense priorities in an ever-changing security environment.

I would also like to recognize the efforts and achievements of the following Pangasinenses being confirmed today:

1. Brigadier General Cesar Andres Molina of Manaoag, Pangasinan;

2. Rear Admiral Felipe Fernandez Bautista of Mangaldan, Pangasinan; and

3. Brigadier General Joel Arenas of Labrador, Pangasinan.

Therefore, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the 22 Officials of the Department of National Defense.”

Thank you, Mr. President.

Esteemed colleagues, I rise to second the appointments of the  thirty-six (36) distinguished Officers of the Department of National Defense.  Their collective experience spans critical areas of defense administration, strategic planning, and operational readiness – ensuring that our institutions remain strong and adaptive in the face of emerging challenges.  Each of these Officers has demonstrated unwavering dedication to duty, making them invaluable to the continued success of our national defense framework.

Allow me also to recognize the exemplary services of the following Officers who hail proudly from Pangasinan, namely:  Brig. Gen. George Pagsolingan Cabreros from Bautista; Brig. Gen. Jonjie Cadeenan Juguilon from Lingayen; and Maj. Gen. Ulysses Soriano Marquez from Manaoag. 

As such, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointments and consent to the nomination  of the thirty-six (36) Officers from the Department of National Defense.  Thank you.

 “ Good afternoon esteemed colleagues:

I rise to second the motion for the confirmation of Mr. Luis Meinrado Calano Pañgulayan as Commissioner of the Civil Service Commission.

Mr. Pañgulayan has long exemplified the ideals of public service competence, integrity, and commitment to institutional development. His years of experience in the executive branch and in various capacities of leadership provide him with both the strategic insight and operational grasp required to serve the CSC with distinction.

His leadership will reinforce the Commission's vital role in building a merit-based, accountable, and professional civil service. As such, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Mr. Luis Meinrado Calano Pañgulayan as Commissioner of the Civil Service Commission.

Thank you, and good afternoon.”

“Good afternoon distinguished colleagues:

I rise to second the confirmation of the eighty-six (86) Officers of the Department of National Defense. Their competencies underscore the professionalism and institutional discipline that form the backbone of our defense department. In these uncertain times, such clarity of purpose from our uniformed service is both timely and commendable.

Recognizing these officers as living testaments to a life of principled service, I express full confidence in their continued fidelity to the Republic and the rule of law. Moreover, I would like to specifically commend the following distinguished officers from the province of Pangasinan, namely:

1.   Major General Florante Piol Sison from Sual;

2.   Commodore Luidegar Cruz Casis from Anda;

3.   Commodore Sergio Mejia Bartolome from Manaoag;

4.   Colonel Jesicar Officiar Barcil from San Fabian;

5.   Colonel Chester Rodriguez Guanzon from Lingayen;

6.   Colonel Ryan Cuison Igama from Mangaldan;

7.   Colonel Percival Centeno Macaranas, Jr. from Malasiqui.

8.   Colonel Joven Diola Bugarin from San Carlos City;

9.   Colonel Rafael Padilla Caido from Labrador; and

10. Colonel Ramil IIdefonso Daet from Urdaneta City.

Truly, your service to the nation is very much appreciated.

With that said, I hereby second the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the eighty-six (86) Officers of the Department of National Defense.”

  “Mr. Chair, distinguished Members of the Commission:

I am honored to second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the eighty-four (84) officers of the Department of National Defense.  It is a recognition of years of dedicated service, quiet sacrifice,  and steadfast commitment to the security and stability of our Republic.

These officers stand as pillars of discipline and leadership in our defense system. In an environment marked by evolving threats and rising expectations, their professionalism and sense of duty are both timely and essential.  I would also like to extend my commendations to the following DND officers who come from the province of Pangasinan, they are:

1. Colonel Mark Anthony Larman Arabe from Mangaldan;

2. Colonel Noel Cuerdo Calimquim from Santa Barbara;

3. Captain Alfredo Peneyra Cayabyab from San Jacinto; and

4. Captain Wigerto Warren Valencerina Lopez from Dagupan City.

The entire province is proud to have produced such exemplary individuals. With that said, I hereby second the ad interim appointments of the eighty-four (84) officers of the Department of National Defense.”

 “Mr. Chairman, distinguished Members of the Commission:

I rise to second the motion to give its consent to the nomination of Ms. Ma. Theresa Parreño Lazaro as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs.  Secretary Lazaro is a career diplomat known for her competence, discretion, and a deep understanding of the complexities of foreign policy.  She brings not only depth of experience but also the institutional continuity and steady hand needed at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty.

In entrusting her with the leadership of the Department, we affirm the value of professionalism, merit, and long-standing dedication in public service.  Secretary Lazaro embodies the ideals of the career foreign service and has consistently upheld the dignity of the post with grace and integrity.

Therefore, I hereby second the motion that the Commission gives its consent to the nomination of Ms. Ma. Theresa Parreño Lazaro as Secretary of Foreign Affairs.”

“Mr. Chairman, distinguished colleagues, I rise to second the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of one hundred eighteen (118) Officers of the Department of National Defense.  The individuals on this list represent the finest of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, having dedicated their lives to the service of our country and having demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and competence throughout their careers.  They are deemed qualified to effectively discharge the greater responsibilities entrusted to them.

Speaking of such exemplary individuals, I would like to take the time to recognize these Officers from Pangasinan:

1. Major General Jonjie Candeenan Juguilon from Lingayen;

2. Commodore Edwin Magday Nera from Tayug; and

3. Colonel William Ocampo Romero from Binmaley.

The province is proud and grateful for your service.

As such, I hereby second the ad interim appointments of the one hundred eighteen (118) Officers of the Department of National Defense.”