JOSE GAY G. PADIERNOS

Mr. Chair, good afternoon, and my colleagues.

Mr. Chair, thank you for the opportunity to give my comments.  It is my honor to endorse for the consideration of this august Body the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Hon. Karlo Alexei Bendigo Nograles as Chairman of the Civil Service Commission.

Chairman Karlo is the son of a very dear friend, former House Speaker Prospero Nograles.  I have known Chairman Karlo and his siblings for many years.  His brother, Jericho “Koko” Nograles, was a former member of the House of Representatives as a Representative of PBA Partylist.  His sister, Migs Nograles, is now the incumbent Representative of the same Partylist.

Chairman Karlo himself, served as Representative of the 1st District of Davao City in the 15th, 16th and 17th Congress.  He has served in other various capabilities:  Cabinet Secretary, Chairperson of the National Irrigation Authority, Co-Chairperson and Spokesperson of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases or IATF, Acting Presidential Spokesperson, and Chairman of the Civil Service Commission under the previous Administration.

Chairman Karlo’s educational background is equally impressive:  Juris Doctor degree, School of Law, Ateneo de Manila University; Bachelor of Science in Management Engineering from the same university; Doctor of Philosophy in the Development Administration from the University of Southeastern Philippines, Davao City; and Doctor of Humanities (Honoris Causa) from the West Visayas State University, Iloilo City.

I have no doubt in my mind that Chairman Karlo will continue to be a great asset to public service.  In fact, his fresh appointment as Chairman of the Civil Service Commission has been well-received at the Commission, with the Commissioners and the officials and employees of CSC expressing their unequivocal support to his appointment and his confirmation as its Chairman.

It is, therefore, my honor to manifest my whole-hearted support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Honorable Karlo Alexei Bendigo Nograles as Chairman of the Civil Service Commission.  

Good afternoon, Sir.

“Mr. Chairman, I would like to manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Secretary Loyzaga graduated Cum Laude from the Ateneo de Manila with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. She then obtained her Master of Arts  degree in Government from Georgetown University in Washington D.C. in 1983.

Secretary Loyzaga is a firm believer that any solution to our problems in the environment must be based on science which comes as no surprise with her extensive experience in her previous non-governmental voluntary work, among which are the following:

1.   Member, Future Earth Global Secretariat Hub, Taipei, Taiwan

2.   Member     and     Treasurer,     Forest Foundation Philippines

3. Director, United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE)

        4.   President, National Resilience Council

5.   Member,  Science    Advisory   Board,  Integrated  Research on  Disaster Risk International Center of Excellence

        6.   Member,  Asia  Science  and Technology  Academia  Advisory Group;  Asia-Pacific 

            Scientific and Technical Advisory Group (AP-ASTAG), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction

Secretary Loyzaga has written and published several scientific papers on various subjects relating to the environment.

Secretary Loyzaga is not the first in her family to go into public service.  Her paternal grandfather, Jose Yulo, served in all three (3) branches of government as:

1.  Justice Secretary

2.  Member   and  Speaker  of  the  National  Assembly

3. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court 

                 Secretary Loyzaga’s late father served as Assemblyman representing the 2nd District of Laguna in the          Interim and First Regular Batasang Pambansa.

Her husband, Joaquin “Chito” Loyzaga, was not only a basketball superstar but also served as a Commissioner of the Philippine Sports Commission from 2010 to 2012.

To end, I reiterate my Manifestation of Support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Ma. Antonia Yulo Loyzaga as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

I am honored to be given this opportunity to manifest my support for the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, of the ad-interim appointment of the Honorable Amenah Flaminiano Pangandaman as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Secretary Pangandaman finished her Bachelor of Arts in Economics at the Far Eastern University. She then went on to get her Bachelor of Arts in Development Economics degree from the University of the Philippines (Dean’s Lister). Pursuing further studies, she obtained her Master in Development Economics also from the University of the Philippines 1999. (Dean’s Lister).

She is now on leave from her online course of Executive Master of Public Administration Course, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London, United Kingdom.

Secretary Pangandaman also took various training courses, among which are:

    1. Evidence in Public Policy (Online Course), University of Oxford, United Kingdom, 2020

   2. Public Policy Analysis (online Course), London School of Economics, University of London, United Kingdom, 2020

Secretary Pangandaman has occupied various positions at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas:

1. Assistant Governor (Chief of Staff), Office of the Governor and Concurrent Head, Strategic Communication and Advocacy and Executive Offices Coordinator

2. Managing Director/Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor

3. Technical Advisor III/Chief of Staff, Office of the Governor and Executive Offices Coordinator

Secretary Pangandaman is not new to the Department of Budget and Management having served it in different capacities:

1. Undersecretary/Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary and concurrent Director of the Budget Technical Bureau

2. Assistant Secretary/Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary

Secretary Pangandaman also worked in Congress:

1. Chief of Staff [For Advocacy Programs and Projects of the Committee on Finance], Office of Senator Loren Legarda, Senate of the Philippines

2. Chief of Staff, Office of Senator Edgardo J. Angara, Senate of the Philippines, Head, Policy Research Group, Political and Constituency, Office of Senator Edgardo J. Angara, Senate of the Philippines

3. Chief, Technical and Research Service Secretariat, Congressional Commission on Labor, House of Representatives and Senate of the Philippines, December 1999 – June 2001 

Her paternal family ancestry traces its roots to one of the Royal Families of the Province of Lanao del Sur and the Islamic City of Marawi. Her paternal great grandparents were Sultan Pangandaman Gandawali, former Municipal Mayor of the Municipality of Masiu, Lanao del Sur and Bai Sibuyan Tago, the heirs to the Sultan of Linuk, a descendant from one of the 16 Royal Houses of Lanao. Her grandfather, Datu Ansari Tanggorac Tago Pangandaman is the eldest brother of the late Lininding Pangandaman, the former Constitutional Convention delegate, COMELEC Commissioner, Ambassador, and Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Regional Governor.

It was gathered that she is a distant relative by affinity of several notable political figures and former government officials, including: Senator Mamintal Tamano, Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser C. Pangandaman, and Department of Migrants Workers Secretary Abdullah Mama-o. 

She is described by sources as an intelligent, humble, friendly, jolly, approachable, self-disciplined and a highly principled individual.

She has reportedly vowed to craft a responsive budget and management policies that will support the rebuilding efforts from the pandemic and intends to continue investing in infrastructure and human capital development. She likewise assured investors of a conducive regulatory environment in the country during the Philippine Economic Briefing hosted by the Department of Finance and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in Singapore in September 2022.

I consider it, therefore, an honor and privilege to be allowed to manifest my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Amenah Flaminiano Pangandaman as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr.  Chair,  I  would like to manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Nesauro Hernandez Firme as a Member, Representing the Academe, of the Judicial & Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines.  Mr. Chair, in the interest of time, may I just request that the rest of my manifestation of support be read into the records?  

Attorney Firme completed his Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Santo Tomas after obtaining his Bachelor of Arts in Legal Management degree from the same University as a St. Martin de Porres Scholar.

Attorney Firme was the Coordinator, Clinical Legal Education Program and a Professorial Lecturer, School of Law, Jose Rizal University.

Attorney Firme was also a Professional Lecturer at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, College of Law, and at the Department of Accountancy, De La Salle University Dasmariñas.

He was a Local Council Executive Board Member of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Mandaluyong Chapter.

His past government positions are:

1. Legal Consultant, Office of City Mayor Benjamin S. Abalos Sr., Public Private Partnership, Mandaluyong City.

2. Chairperson, People's Law Enforcement Board (PLEB), Mandaluyong City.

3.  Consultant - Executive Assistant/ Chief of Staff, Chairman Benjamin C. Abalos Jr., Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

4. Consultant, Presidential Commission on Good Government.

Attorney Firme is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned, Mandaluyong City.

He is described by sources as a witty, strict, meticulous, strong-willed and good-natured individual and is noted for his strength of character, resiliency, sincerity and fairness in dealing with people.

Attorney Firme's experience in the academe definitely makes him well-qualified for the position that he has been appointed to.

I am, therefore, pleased to manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Honorable Nesauro Hernandez Firme as a Member, Representing the Academe, of the Judicial & Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is my honor to endorse, for the consideration of this Body, the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Lucas Purungganan Bersamin as Executive Secretary.

The dedication and willingness of Executive Secretary Bersamin to serve his country, even after retirement, is remarkable.

Executive Secretary Bersamin spent a good amount of nearly thirty-three (33) years serving the Judiciary. He served as the 25th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. He was also a former Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals and a former Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court of Branch 96 in Quezon City.

During his stint as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, Executive Secretary Bersamin was known to set and prioritize the following agenda:

           1. Revising or updating of the Rules of Court 

           2. Purging the Bench of misfits and scalawags

          3. Initiating Bar Reforms

          4. Adopting legal clinics to enhance access to justice

After he retired from the Judiciary, Executive Secretary Bersamin served as the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). It was under his leadership when the GSIS received the "Most Valuable Government Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic" Award from the Stevie International Business Awards in 2020. The GSIS was also named as one of the Top Five (5) Most Trusted Government Agencies in the 2021 Philippine Trust Index.

Prior to joining the Judiciary, Executive Secretary Bersamin practiced and eventually became a Partner of the Purugganan, Lizardo, Bersamin Law Offices for twelve (12) years.

Executive Secretary Bersamin was likewise known to possess a high degree of intelligence and undeniable wisdom.  He was a class valedictorian in grade school and in high school. He then took up Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, and thereafter Bachelor of Laws from the University of the East Manila. Executive Secretary Bersamin placed ninth (9th) in the 1973 bar exams, with a score of 100% in Criminal Law.

Executive  Secretary  Bersamin   was also a recipient of various awards from notable institutions, including:

             1. Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) from the University of the East and the University of Cebu both in 2019

             2. Laureate, (Gusi Peace Prize) from the Gusi Peace Prize Foundation in 2018

             3. Chief Justice Jose Abad Santos Award as Outstanding Judge in 2002

             4. One of The 60 Most Outstanding Alumni from the University of the East

             5. Best Decision in Civil Law and Best Decision in Criminal Law from the Judicial Excellence Award in 2000

Not only is he a Law Professor, but a published author, a Bar Reviewer, and a Member of the Board of Trustees of the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center and the University of the East. He is also a generous and kind-hearted husband, dad, and grandfather.

The position of Executive Secretary requires not only immense knowledge and wealth of experience but also commitment and dedication to public service, all of which Executive Secretary Bersamin possesses.

I, therefore, manifest my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Lucas Purungganan Bersamin as the Executive Secretary.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, a pleasant good afternoon.

It is my honor and privilege to endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Gamaliel Asis Cordoba as Chairperson of the Commission on Audit.

Chairperson Cordoba was the longest-serving Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, or the NTC.  He held the position for over thirteen (13) years until his optional retirement.

Mr. Cordoba obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the Ateneo de Manila University.  He obtained his Juris Doctor Degree also from Ateneo de Manila University.  

Before dedicating his life to public service, Mr. Cordoba worked for four (4) years as an Associate of the oldest law office in the country, the Siguion Reyna, Montecillo & Ongsiako Law Offices.  Thereafter, he held key positions in the government, namely:

         1. Director IV in the Office of then Presidential Chief of Staff, the late Renato Corona

         2. Undersecretary in the Office of Executive Secretaries Alberto Romulo and Eduardo Ermita

         3. Appointments Secretary of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

         4. Director of PAGCOR

         5. NTC Commissioner

It was under Chair Cordoba’s leadership, when he was NTC Commissioner, that the agency reached many of its defining milestones such as:  the adoption of the digital TV system] a huge improvement in Philippine ranking, in terms of internet speed, both in mobile and fixed broadband; and, the NTC consistently exceeding its collection targets.

In recognition of his service, Chair Cordoba was awarded the Presidential Medal of Merit by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in 2010.

These are but some of the testaments to  Chair  Cordoba's dedication, competence and leadership traits which he will be taking with him, as he takes the helm of the Commission on Audit.  I have no doubt in my mind that Chair Cordoba can ably lead this very important constitutional Body, the Commission of Audit.

It is, therefore, my honor, to manifest my whole-hearted support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Gamaliel Asis Cordoba as Chairperson of the Commission on Audit.  

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

It is my honor to manifest my support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointment of    the    Honorable     Raphael     Perpetuo 

Mercado Lotilla as Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE). 

Secretary Lotilla is the first person to have been reappointed as Energy Secretary, 

having held the position from 2005 to 2007, under the administration of former Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. During his first stint as Secretary of the Department of Energy, Secretary Lotilla was credited for steering the department towards the achievement of the government’s energy independence and power sector reform agenda, for the launching of the commercial operations of the Wholesale Electricity Spot market, and for playing an important role in the passage of the Biofuels Act of 2006.

Secretary Lotilla is a renowned professor, a prolific writer, a published author, and a well-respected lawyer who earned his Master of Laws from the University of Michigan and his Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines Diliman.  He is also known for his unblemished service record and for his pro-poor advocacy as reflected on his simple ways and frugal lifestyle.  

A true veteran in the energy sector, Secretary Lotilla also served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation or PSALM. He also served as a Deputy Director General with the rank of Undersecretary of the National Economic Development Authority, and as a legal consultant of prominent legislators such as Assemblyman Marcelo Fernan, Senate President Jovito Salonga, Senate President Edgardo Angara, and Senate President Blas Ople. 

After serving as Secretary of the Department of Energy, Secretary Lotilla held high ranking positions in the private sector, majority of which were involved in the energy industry.  Indeed, Secretary Lotilla’s experiences, both in the public and private sectors, coupled with his unquestionable integrity, makes him highly qualified to lead the Department of Energy amid big time oil price hikes and the country’s constant search for cheaper, reliable and clean sources of energy. 

I, therefore, join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Raphael Perpetuo Mercado Lotilla as Secretary of the Department of Energy.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

It is my honor to endorse for the consideration of this Body, the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Jaime Jimenez Bautista as the Secretary of the Department of Transportation. 

Fondly known as Jimmy/Jim to many, Secretary Bautista is my fellow kababayan, a true Novo Ecijano, from the neighboring city of Cabanatuan. 

Secretary Bautista may be new in the field of government service, but he has held various and significant leadership positions within the private sector.  He rose through the ranks, starting out at SGV & Company as a certified public accountant.  With the dedication and competence that he has presented in his line of work,  he was eventually able to hold high positions in various corporations.  To be specific, he has been given the distinction of serving as the oldest airline President in Asia.  Under his leadership,  Philippine Airlines was able to receive a higher Skytrax four-star rating  and the most improved airline in the world award, way back in 2018.  

It is not a secret that the transportation sector has been greatly affected by the pandemic and holding the position of a Secretary under such a department will come with a lot of responsibility and challenges.   However,  I believe that Secretary Bautista will be able to fulfill his duties with leadership,  competence,  and professionalism, just as he had successfully done in the past within the private sector.

As I stated earlier, Secretary Bautista has been with the airline industry for many years.  The Department of Transportation will be a larger department to manage but one that, I know,  Secretary Bautista will be able to handle and further improve.

I,  therefore,  join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of  the Honorable Jaime Jimenez Bautista as the Secretary of the Department of Transportation. 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

Mr. Chairperson/Senate President and distinguished colleagues, it is my distinct privilege and honor to submit to this august Body, and to move for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Arsenio Molina Balisacan as Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority.

The position as Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority is important since our country is at a critical stage in its economic history.  While we are on our way to full recovery from the negative effects brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, new risks to our sustained growth and socioeconomic development continue to emerge.  These times of uncertainty require economic leadership with the highest standards of competence, experience, professionalism, and integrity.  Without a doubt, Sec. Arsenio Molina Balisacan qualifies for this position.

Secretary Balisacan was a professor for nearly three (3) decades at the University of the Philippines, serving as Dean for the School of Economics from 2010 to 2012.  His research and an extensive list of publications, including seven (7) books and close to one hundred (100) scholarly papers, have earned him the respect of his colleagues, fellow scholars, and distinguished international development experts in Southeast Asia.

Secretary Balisacan likewise served as the first Chairperson of the Philippine Competition Commission.  During his tenure as inaugural Chairperson, Secretary Balisacan and the inaugural set of Commissioners built the agency from scratch.  They steered the organization as they established its frameworks, processes, and practices.  Through his pioneering efforts, it is expected that the PCC will be a leading competition authority in Southeast 

Asia in the years to come.

Such is the reputation of Secretary Balisacan that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., handpicked him to once again head NEDA, having served previously as its Secretary from 2012 to 2016.  In fact, during the period when he was NEDA Secretary and the years that followed pre-pandemic, the economy grew at a pace not seen in many years, earning the country the accolade “a rising tiger of Asia.”

This early in the Marcos Administration, under Secretary Balisacan’s leadership, the NEDA has nearly completed the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, the blueprint that lays out our socioeconomic strategies to reinvigorate job creation and accelerate poverty reduction.  The Plan’s timely formulation indicates how serious this Administration is in ensuring that our economy returns to its high-growth trajectory and that the proper strategies are implemented to make such growth more inclusive and resilient.

Having served in the Cabinet under two (2) Presidents and having occupied various leadership positions, Secretary Balisacan has the requisite experience and background in public policy and governance to carry out his duties as the agency’s Secretary.

Thus, I move for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Arsenio Molina Balisacan as Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority.

Thank you.

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

I am honored to be given this opportunity to manifest my support for the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Ernesto Ferdinand Perez Maceda Jr. as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

Commissioner Maceda is the son of the late Senate President and author of the Maceda Law, Ernesto “Ernie” M. Maceda Sr., and the Matriarch of Philippine Cinema, Ma. Azucena “Marichu” Vera-Perez.

Commissioner Maceda is known to put a high premium on education.  He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines, his Bachelor of Laws from the Ateneo School of Law, his Master of Laws from Columbia University in New York, and his Doctor of Public Administration from the University of the Philippines.  He placed 19th when he took the 1989 Philippine Bar Examination. 

He entered politics at an early age of twenty-three (23) and served for three (3) terms as a Manila Councilor.   He then served as the Vice Mayor of Manila at the age of twenty-eight (28).  Commissioner Maceda used to be a Partner of the law firm Maceda & Maceda Law Offices  where he practiced election law.   He then worked for Congress as the Chief of Staff of the Office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives and thereafter as Supervising Political Affairs Officer. 

Commissioner Maceda is also a highly respected personality in the academe, having served as a professor, the former Dean of the Pamantasan Lungsod ng Maynila, College of Law, Member of the Board of Trustees of the Philippine Judicial Academy, and Chairperson of the Philippine Association of Law Schools. 

Given his legal background and leadership experience, coupled with his competence and integrity, Commissioner Maceda is indeed highly qualified to be one of the Commissioners of the COMELEC.  

I consider it, therefore, an honor and privilege to manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Ernesto Ferdinand Perez Maceda Jr. as Commissioner of the COMELEC.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is my honor and privilege to manifest my general support to the confirmation by this Honorable Commission on the ad interim appointments of all our AFP appointees. I also want to express my sincerest gratitude to all our AFP  appointees for all their services and sacrifices for our country.  Buong puso ang pagmamahal nila para sa ating bayan at sa ating mga kababayan. 

However, please allow me to mention my strong support, specifically, for my kababayan from Talavera, Nueva Ecija, Colonel Wilfredo Castillo Martin, Jr.  Siya ay ipinagmamalaki naming mga Novo Ecijanos.  Salamat sa iyong dedikasyon at sa karangalan na ibinibigay mo  para sa ating bansa. 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is my honor and privilege to manifest my general support for the consent and confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the nomination and ad interim appointments of all our DFA Officials before us today.  I also want to express my sincerest gratitude to all of them for their services and sacrifices for our country.  

However,  please allow me to mention my strong support, specifically, to the following Officials: 

First, to Ambassador Kira Christianne Dañganan Azucena, Chief of Mission, Class I, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to New Zealand.  Ambassador Azucena brings with her twenty eight (28) years of experience in Foreign Service.  She has been recognized for her significant contributions namely:  outstanding service in her capacity as Special Assistant to the Secretary-General of the National Organizing Committee of the Philippines for hosting the 12th ASEAN Summit which landed her a Presidential Award Order of Lakandula; for drafting the paper that became the template of the DFA to pursue the State’s directive to internationalize the issue on the West Philippine Sea;  and for successfully handling the fall-out concerning the article that branded the Philippines a ‘nation of servants’ during her stint as Deputy Consul General in Hong Kong.

Second, to Chief of Mission, Class II, Edna May Grecia Lazaro, whose academic records are impeccable.  She passed the 1997 Philippine Bar Exam after obtaining her Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines Diliman.  She also placed 2nd in the 2001 Foreign Service Officers Examination.  She was also recognized for her role in personally preparing the position papers on Senate and House Bills which sought to amend the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995.  She also served as the First Secretary and Consul to the Philippine Embassy  in Singapore. 

Third,  to Chief of Mission,  Class II,  Edgar Tomas Quilino Auxilian. He assumed significant posts at the home office and overseas such as in Germany, Guam, USA and Kenya until his designation as Consul General in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  He was recognized for leading the promotion of economic diplomacy activities, in spite of the limitations posed by the COVID-19 pandemic such as the official launch of the new international investment marketing of the BOI-DTI, ‘Make It Happen in the Philippines’. 

Fourth, to Ambassador Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda, Chief of Mission, Class I. Ambassador Peñaranda has authored several writings on diplomacy and the ASEAN. He also contributed to the Philippine Embassy’s successful campaign for the passage of the Filipino Veterans equity provision in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. In his current position, he successfully managed and coordinated the substantive aspects of the participation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the High-Level Week of the 77th United Nations General Assembly. 

Lastly,  to Ambassador Lilybeth Rodriguez Deapera as Chief of Mission, Class I, who has dedicated thirty (30) years of her life to Foreign Service.  Ambassador Deapera was reportedly the first woman to be appointed as Consul General in Macau.  She was known to cause the reconstruction of several school buildings damaged by Typhoon Haiyan, in uplifting the lives of OFWs in Macau through skills training programs, and in modifying the system of visa issuance resulting in faster processing of applications, which directly contributed to the increase in tourist arrivals to the Philippines. 

Again, it is my honor to endorse the consent and confirmation of our distinguished and outstanding DFA Officials.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

It is my honor to manifest my strong support to the nomination of Ambassador Manuel Antonio Javier Teehankee. 

Ambassador Teehankee holds an excellent academic record. Notably, he was a valedictorian at the Ateneo Law School and subsequently, topped the bar in 1984.  He was also the Chevening Scholar during his Master of Laws program at the London School of Economics and Political Science. 

Finally, he was the Cum Laude during his PhD program at the Geneva Graduate Institute on Trade and Environment Governance at the World Trade Organization. 

Aside from his eighteen (18) years of experience in foreign service, Ambassador Teehankee has expertise in the field of law and government service.   Prior to his nomination to this present position, he was Undersecretary for International Economic Relations at the Department of Foreign Affairs and also has served as Undersecretary for the Department of Justice back in 2001-2004. 

I believe that Ambassador Teehankee will be able to contribute the necessary knowledge needed from him and will go beyond what is expected of him.   He continues to be an active resource person and writes on various engaging topics such as legal, political, and economic issues. As a matter of fact, many of his publications are on the World Trade Organization. 

To be nominated as a Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines comes with great responsibility that I know the Honorable Ambassador will be able to successfully fulfill given his accomplishments.

I consider it, therefore, an honor and privilege to manifest my support for the nomination of the Honorable Ambassador Manuel Antonio Javier Teehankee, as Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland with the salary and emoluments of a Chief of Mission, Class I. 

Thank you Mr. Chair.” 

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

On behalf of GP Partylist and myself, we consider it a great honor and privilege to manifest our general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission on the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees.  

Thank you for your service, dedication and sacrifices for our country.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

GP Partylist and myself, as its representative, considers it an honor to manifest a general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees. 

Isang malaking karangalan din na ipagmalaki ko ang aking mga kababayan mula sa San Antonio na si Colonel Christopher Macapagal Mendoza  para sa ating Philippine Army.   Saludo kaming Novo Ecijano sa iyong husay at tibay.  

Muli, maraming salamat sa lahat ng ating Department of National Defense Officers sa kanilang serbisyo para sa ating bansa. 

Thank you,  Mr. Chair. 

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

As GP Party-List Representative, it is my honor to manifest my general support for the consent of the nominations and confirmation of the ad interim appointment, by this Honorable Commission, of all our DFA Officials, namely:

1. PHILIPPE JONES LHUILLIER  -

as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Spain, with concurrent jurisdiction over the Principality of Andorra, with the salary and emoluments of a Chief of Mission, Class I

2. RAQUEL RAYEL SOLANO   - 

as Chief of Mission, Class II

3. MERSOLE JALA MELLEJOR -  

as Chief of Mission, Class II, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Benin, Burkina Faso, the Republic of Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Cote D'ivoire, the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, the Gabonese Republic, the Republic of the Gambia, the Republic of Ghana, the Republic of Liberia, the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Togolese Republic

To all our Honorable Ambassadors before us today, thank you for representing our country with pride and honor.  Your respective accomplishments and ultimately, your diplomatic skills, strong work ethics, and dedication to service have resulted in each of you to earn your respectable and well-deserved positions within the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Thus, it is with great honor that I manifest my support to the nominations and ad interim appointment of all the DFA Officials before us today.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, a pleasant afternoon. 

It is my honor and privilege  to endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Gilberto Teodoro Jr. as Secretary of the Department of National Defense. 

Secretary Teodoro is no stranger to the Department of National Defense. He served as Secretary of the DND from 2007-2009 under the Presidency of then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Because of his effective leadership, he was seen by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as fitting to serve once again as the leader of the DND. 

Secretary Teodoro obtained his Bachelor's Degree at De La Salle University, Taft Avenue, Manila  in 1985. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in the University of the Philippines - Diliman Quezon City in 1989. He ranked first in the 1989 Philippine Bar Examinations.  He pursued and finished his Masters of Law (LLM) from Harvard Law School in 1997 and passed the New York State Bar in the same year.

Adding colors to his educational attainments and eligibilities, Secretary Teodoro also obtained the following awards: 

1.Philippine Legion of Honor (Rank of  Grand Commander), 2009 (reportedly  the first to be awarded such rank);

2. Doctor of Laws, West Negros University,   Burgos St., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, 2009 (honoris causa);

3. Doctor in Public Administration, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Anonas St., Sta. Mesa District, Manila, 2009 (honoris causa);

4. Dean's Medal for Academic Excellence, College of Law, University of the Philippines - Diliman, Quezon City, 1989; 

5. M-16 Rifle Marksmanship Badge; 

6. AFP General Staff Course Badge; and,

7. Presidential Flight Crew Badge. 

Before dedicating his life to public service, Secretary Teodoro was a lawyer by profession. He worked as an Associate of the Estelito Mendoza Law Office for seven (7) years. Thereafter, he held key positions in the government namely: 

1. President, Kabataang Barangay, Province of Tarlac/Central Luzon, 1980 - 1986;

2. Member (ex officio), Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Province of Tarlac, 1980-1986; 

3. Acting Commanding Officer, Reserve Airlift and Tactical Support Group, Col.  Jesus A. Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, 1999 - 2001;

4. Representative, 1st District, Tarlac, 11th, 12th and 13th Congresses, House of Representatives, Bgy. Batasan Hills, Quezon City, 1998-2007 

    for three (3) consecutive terms; and,

5. Assistant Majority Floor Leader (1998 -2001).

Secretary Teodoro has indeed served his country with brilliance and wisdom.  It is, therefore, my honor to manifest my whole-hearted support  to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Gilberto Teodoro as Secretary of the Department of National Defense. 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”   

Magandang hapon po, Mr. Chair, at sa mga colleagues ko dito sa Commission on Appointments.

Isang malaking karangalan na mapabilang sa mga magbibigay ng suporta para sa kumpirmasyon ng Commission on appointments  sa  tatlo (3) nating nominees 

mula sa Department of Foreign Affairs.

First, ay si MR. CHARLIE PACAÑA MANANGAN bilang Chief of Mission, Class I, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Iraq.  With over thirty-five (35) years of foreign service, he has ably served and represented our country.  He also led the Secretariat Bids and Awards Committee in the Department of Foreign Affairs which was recognized as the “Best Work Organization” in the DFA in 2022;

Second, si MS. KIRA CHRISTIANNE DANGANAN AZUCENA, Chief of Mission, Class I, as Non-Resident Ambassador to Niue in addition to being Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to New Zealand.  She has played various roles within the government, including her being a Special Assistant to the Secretary-General of the National Organizing Committee of the Philippines, a role where she was conferred the “Presidential Award Order of Lakandula” (with the rank of Commander); and,

Last, but not the least, ay si MS. CATHERINE CRUZ SY, bilang Foreign Service Officer, Class IV.  She has served thirteen (13) years in the government at patuloy pong maglilingkod ngayon bilang Director IV sa Department of Migrant Workers.

Madami po ang kinailangan nilang gawin upang marating ang kani-kanilang position.  Ito pong consent sa kanilang nominasyon ng Commission on Appointments ay isa lamang patunay sa kanilang sakripisyo, sipag, at husay.  

Mula sa GP Partylist, gusto ko po magbigay puri at pasasalamat para sa inyong dedikasyon sa paglilingkod ninyo para sa ating bayan.

Maraming salamat po, Mr. Chair.”

Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is my honor and privilege to endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Francisco Pe Tiu Laurel, Jr., as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture.

Mr. Francisco Pe Tiu Laurel, Jr. or fondly known to many as Kiko, earning the position of Department of Agriculture Secretary is significant since it is the latter’s first major appointment within the government.  In the past, he has only held minor public roles:  the position of Commander in the Naval Affiliated Reserve Force NCR for the Philippine Navy and member of the Agriculture Group for the Private Sector Advisory Council, wherein he was recognized for providing his expertise, logistical support and capability training.

Thus, it is without a doubt that Secretary Laurel is sacrificing a great deal by taking on this public role.  He began his employment career in the private sector for his family business as a regular employee and worked his way up by gradually taking on leadership roles.  At the age of twenty-eight (28), he took over their family business and from there, he diversified its business units.  Over the years, he served in various capacities such as treasurer, vice president, chairperson, and director and expanded into different industries such as energy, real estate, and distribution, other than the initial fishing business that he had inherited.  Secretary Laurel furthered the successes of all his companies while continuing to implement his leadership skills and innovations.

The experiences that Secretary Laurel has had within the private sector are not only proof that he will be able to successfully fulfill his position as Secretary but it will also help him in taking on this bigger role within the government.  Secretary Laurel is well-equipped with accomplishments, work ethics, and people-centric values that will allow him to successfully navigate the public sector.  As a matter of fact, he has already pledged to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the Philippines through the modernization of farming methods and practices, implementing effective logistic strategies, and proposing digital transformation for agricultural commodities for more accurate data.

These are but some of the testaments to Secretary Laurel’s dedication, competence, and leadership – traits which Secretary Laurel takes with him as he takes the helm of the Department of Agriculture. 

It is, therefore, my honor to manifest my full support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Francisco Pe Tiu Laurel Jr. as Secretary of the Department of Agriculture.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

It is an honor and privilege to manifest our general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees. On behalf of the GP Partylist I want to thank all of you for your service, dedication and sacrifices for our country. 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments,  good morning. It is my honor 

and privilege to endorse the confirmation,  by this Honorable Commission, of the ad interim appointment  of the Honorable Secretary Ralph Gonzales Recto.

The Honorable Secretary is no stranger to the public sector having started his political career in the year 1992.  He served before as a Senator, a Representative, and as Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning, and Director General  for the National Economic Development Authority.  In fact, true to his commitment to public service, he also served as a member of this very prestigious Body, the Commission on Appointments,  during the 16th,  17th,  and 18th  Congress of the Philippines.  To add, these positions were held alongside the great responsibility of serving as a Chairperson of several important committees such as the Committee on Ways and Means, and the Committee on Economic Affairs. 

Relevant to the Honorable Secretary’s current position is his vast experience and extensive knowledge in economics, management, and government issues.  In the past, he authored major fiscal and revenue laws,  and as a result, introduced transformative economic reforms to the whole country.  He was capable of making an impact then - he is capable of making an impact today.  I, therefore, join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Secretary Ralph Gonzales Recto. 

Thank you,  Mr. Chair.” 

“Magandang hapon po, Mr. Chair, at sa mga colleagues ko sa Commission on Appointments. 

Isang malaking karangalan na mapabilang sa magbibigay ng supporta para sa kumpirmasyon ng ating mga nominado mula sa Department of Foreign Affairs. 

Madami po ang kinailangan nilang gawin upang marating ang kani-kanilang position – maraming taon at mga aral ng buhay ang kinailangan lagpasan – para makamit ang kani-kanilang mga pangarap di lang para sa kanilang buhay kundi para din sa ating bansa.  Ito pong kumpirmasyon nila sa Commission on Appointments ay isa lamang patunay sa kanilang sakripisyo, sipag, at husay. 

Mula po sa GP Partylist, gusto ko pong magbigay puri at pasasalamat para sa inyong dedikasyon  at sa paglilingkod ninyo para sa ating bayan. 

Salamat po, Mr. Chair.”

Good afternoon.

Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments. It is with great honor and privilege that I endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, the appointment of a truly exceptional individual, the Honorable Secretary of the Department of Education, Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Manalang Angara.

A doting father, an avid public servant, and now, a very dedicated Secretary for the Department of Education - these are only but some of the remarkable qualities of the Honorable Juan Edgardo Manalang Angara — or, as many of us fondly known him as “Sonny.” Tracing his roots from a family of public servants, the Honorable Secretary has been honed by time and experience in upholding the legacy, commitment, and dedication of his family to public service.

In his eleven (11) years as a Senator and nine (9) years as a Member of the House of Representatives, the Honorable Secretary has been devoted in his commitment to public service with the highest standards of excellence. He has exemplified competence, integrity, and diligence throughout this 20-year stint. He remained tireless in his pursuit for the betterment of the lives of every Filipino. He endeavored to advocate and legislate bills that sought to uplift the lives of the people and,  as  a  matter  of  fact,  he is a Representative known for having filed the highest number of bills that were enacted into law, such as: “The Magna Carta of Women", "The Pre-Need Code", and “The Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) Act".

Undoubtedly, the Honorable Secretary's impeccable and exceptional credentials, coupled with the wisdom from the years of experience, dedication, determination, and passion for public service, underscores just how truly deserving he is for this role. Recognizing the fundamental and critical role of education in nation-building, there is no better man for this position other than someone who has experienced being the student and the educator, the learner and the professor - someone who is deeply committed and passionate for educational improvement. He has always staunchly supported legislations that sought to improve the quality of education for the youth and, without a doubt, I firmly believe that he will continue to promote and cultivate quality education. I am more than confident that he will champion the cause for educational improvement by advocating for better learning opportunities for the youths and by addressing the needs of the students and the teachers alike.

It is, therefore, but fitting that we allow the Honorable Secretary to further the hard-earned and well-deserved career in the Department of Education, given his academic achievements, vast experience, extensive knowledge and utmost dedication to our country. In fact, beyond the exemplary credentials, there is nothing more impressive than his passion and dedication to serve. We are truly fortunate that a man who possesses these extraordinary qualities and a heart dedicated to public service, has been appointed for this very crucial role.

I, therefore, join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the honorable Secretary of the Department of Education, Juan Edgardo Manalang Angara.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

"Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission Appointments, good afternoon. 

It is my honor to endorse the consideration by this Body for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Hans Leo Javier Cacdac as the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.

There is no person better to fill the position as the Secretary for the Department of Migrant Workers other than Secretary Cacdac -- a person with passion for public service, immeasurable humility, and experience in handling the numerous everyday challenges that our overseas kababayan-workers face worldwide.

The Honorable Secretary, often called as a "son of an OFW father", is a lawyer by profession, who has been serving in the government for the past twenty-three (23) years. Immediately after passing the Bar Examinations in 1993, he already began his career dedicated to serving others, specifically women, farmers, workers, the urban poor, indigenous people, and local communities as an Associate Lawyer at the Alternative Legal Assistance Center. Within the government, he rose through the ranks having served various positions, some of which are serving as an Undersecretary for Foreign Employment and Welfare Service in the DMW and for Labor Relations in the Department of Labor and Employment.

It is without a doubt that Secretary Cacdac has the compassion and passion for this position, and consequently, for our Filipino workers. He has been on the forefront when it comes to being a voice for our domestic workers. It is important to note that the Honorable Secretary has taken part in successful negotiations for bilateral labor agreements, has engaged in Philippine delegations with a commitment to promote the rights of our kababayans, and even contributed to crafting the implementing rules and regulations for the implementation of the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipino Act of 1995. Secretary Cacdac is both highly qualified and competent but more importantly, he is for the Filipino people.

It is in his notable accomplishments, his unwavering commitment to serving our fellow kababayans, and the many endorsements received with high regard and respect from various foreign diplomatic missions, government agencies, and international organizations that I believe him to be the perfect person to lead as Secretary of this Department

I, therefore, join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Hans Leo Javier Cacdac as the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.

Thank you, Mr. Chair." 

“Mr. Chair, and to my esteemed and distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good morning.

It is with great honor and privilege that I endorse the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of an outstanding and remarkable individual, the honorable Jose Vicencio Mejia.

He is one of the twelve (12) children of parents who were both public servants and it is no surprise that he too grew fond of public service.  Hindi lamang po sa pribadong sektor nagserbisyo ang ating appointee, siya po ay naging bahagi rin ng government sector bilang staff ni former Senator Rene Saguisag at naging Director din po sya ng Department of Agrarian Reform.  Maliban po rito naging malaking bahagi din po s’ya ng academe sa halos apat (4) na dekada bilang Professor at Lecturer ng mga kilalang institusyon tulad na lamang ng De La Salle University, Ateneo De Manila University, at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

The Judicial and Bar Council holds a crucial role of ensuring and safeguarding the integrity and competency of the judiciary.  They are given this fundamental task of making sure that the judges and officials of our courts are not only qualified and competent but also impartial and ethical.

I have no doubt that this exceptional appointee is more than qualified for this position.  In fact, this confirmation is already his third (3rd) stint as member of the Judicial and Bar Council.  He served as a Member of the JBC Representing the Academe for two (2) consecutive terms in 2011 until 2018.

During his prior stints as a member of the JBC, he was part of the committee that drafted the Manual of JBC Officials, its mission and vision, and the guidelines in the administrative matters which has become the reference and fundamental guide of the JBC officials and employees in their operations and functions.

Evidently, he has shown significant and remarkable contribution that he is once again being confirmed as a Member of the JBC, this time Representing the Private Sector.

I trust that our appointee will endeavor to take on this noble and immense responsibility of imbuing passion and integrity in upholding the principles of justice and ensuring that justice is served.

I therefore, join the rest of my colleagues in the Commission on Appointments in expressing my full support to the motion for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Jose Vicencio Mejia as Member, Representing the Private Sector, in the Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

"Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.

It is with great honor and privilege that I endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, the ad interim appointment of a remarkable individual, the Honorable Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Juanito Victor "Jonvic" Remulla.

We gather here today not only to affirm the leadership of this outstanding public servant but also to uphold the vision of a peaceful and progressive local governance.

Coming from a family of public servants, it came as no surprise that this extraordinary individual has chosen and devoted himself to a life of public service. Kilalang kilala po natin ang ama ni Secretary Remulla, bilang "Father of Modem Cavite na marahil ang pangunahing naging dahilan kung bakit at kung paano namulat sa serbisyo publiko si Secretary Remulla.

Karamihan po sa atin ay kilala siya bilang masayahin at mapagbirong tao ngunit seryoso sa pagseserbisyo. Tulad na lamang ng kanyang debosyon sa pamilya, ganoon din po ang kanyang dedikasyon sa paglilingkod sa ating mga kababayan.

He began his career in politics as a Member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the 2nd District of Cavite in 1995. He was then elected as Vice Governor of Cavite for three (3) consecutive terms, and later on became Governor. It would be a long list if I were to enumerate each and every achievement and milestone in his political career, but in all these years he has demonstrated nothing but an epitome of dedication and passion for community empowerment. In his years of public service, he has shown deep rooted commitment and dedication in the service of the Filipino people qualities that are crucial to lead the Department of Interior and Local Government in effectively promoting peace and order, ensuring public safety and strengthening the local government.

Secretary Remulla is not just a leader, but a servant to the people. He has proven time and again that he has remained committed to his cause and steadfast in his advocacies and in ensuring that the benefits of good governance are felt by the people. I am certain that he will be able to fulfill his role with the competence and dedication necessary to be able to give back to the Filipino people.

I wholeheartedly express my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Secretary Jonvic Remulla. His appointment will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Thank you, Mr. Chair."

“Mr. Chair, my esteemed colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. 

It  is  with  great  honor  and  privilege that I stand before you today to endorse the confirmation, by this Honorable Commission, of an exceptional individual, the appointment of the Honorable Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque.

The Honorable Secretary brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of trade and industry not only from her time in the government service but also from her extensive experience in the private sector.  

Given her entrepreneurial background, I am confident that she will be fully committed to empowering and improving the Department of Trade and Industry.  Her drive, determination, and wealth of experience will undoubtedly benefit  the department and the country  as a whole. 

Buong puso po ang aking suporta sa confirmation ng ad interim appointment ng Honorable Secretary  ng Department of Trade and Industry Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque.  

 Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, magandang hapon po sa inyong lahat. 

It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before this Honorable Commission today to express my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of all our appointees from the Department of National Defense (DND). 

Their dedication and commitment to public service are crucial in ensuring the security and defense of our country. We are fortunate to have these exceptional individuals in these critical positions within the DND.  I am confident that with their leadership, we can strengthen our defenses and ensure that we are capable of responding to any threat to our national security and sovereignty.

The appointees before us have demonstrated a deep sense of duty, and resilience.  They have dedicated their lives to public service and to advancing our national defense objectives. They have shown strong commitment and a profound sense of patriotism in protecting the lives and welfare of our citizens. Their tireless efforts and sacrifices for the betterment of our country deserve recognition.  Their work is often unseen, but it is fundamental to the peace and security we enjoy as a nation. 

Isang malaking karangalan po para sa akin na ipahayag ang aking buong suporta para sa pagkumpirma sa ad interim appointments ng ating mga appointees sa Department of National Defense (DND).  Ang kanilang walang sawang suporta sa pagtataguyod ng kapayapaan at kaayusan ay napakahalaga sa pagpapatatag ng ating pambansang seguridad at sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan sa ating mga komunidad. 

I would like to manifest my general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees.  I want to thank all of you for your unwavering dedication, support, and services to our country.  I am confident that, with the support of this Commission, these appointments will bring valuable contributions to the Department of National Defense. 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.” 

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, magandang umaga po sa inyong lahat. 

Isang malaking karangalan po na magpahayag ng aking suporta para sa kumpirmasyon ng ad interim appointments ng ating mga appointees at nominee sa Department of National Defense (DND).  Ang kanilang walang sawang suporta sa pagtataguyod ng kapayapaan at kaayusan ay napakahalaga sa pagpapatatag ng ating pambansang seguridad at sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan sa ating mga komunidad.  

We are more than fortunate to have these dedicated and committed individuals standing at the forefront of our nation safeguarding and defending our sovereignty. These outstanding appointees and nominee before us have demonstrated a deep sense of duty, integrity and dedication to public service. They have shown strong commitment and a profound sense of patriotism in protecting the lives and welfare of our citizens. Their tireless efforts and sacrifices for the betterment of our country deserve recognition.  

Isang malaking karangalan po na ipahayag ang aking buong pusong pag- suporta para sa kumpirmasyon at pagsang-ayon ng ad interim appointments at nomination ng ating mga appointees at nominee sa Department of National Defense (DND). 

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good morning. 

Thirty-one years as an election officer is no easy feat. Tatlumpu’t isang taon ng walang sawang paglilingkod sa bayan, pagpapatupad ng patas at malinis na halalan, at paninindigan sa katotohanan at integridad  — these are not just statistics. These are years of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering public service. 

Commissioner Pipo has been a consistent example of excellence. Isa siya sa mga kinilalang Best Assisting Election Officers noong 1996. In 1998, he also received special recognition for his role in investigating “ghost barangays” — a critical issue that threatened the credibility of our elections. Hindi po biro ang tungkuling ginampanan niya, at hindi rin matatawaran ang kanyang kontribusyon sa pagpapalakas ng ating demokrasya. 

Ngayon, bilang itinalagang Commissioner ng COMELEC, naniniwala ako na siya ay handang-handa na upang iangat pa ang antas ng serbisyo sa ating komisyon. With his wealth of experience, institutional knowledge, and track record  of reform and discipline, he brings invaluable strength to the Commission. 

Sa panahong hinahamon ang kredibilidad ng mga institusyong pampulitika, kailangan natin ng mga tulad ni Commissioner Pipo — maayos, matuwid, at may tunay na malasakit sa halalan at sa kapakanan ng taumbayan. Kaya po, buong-buo ang aking suporta sa kumpirmasyon ng kanyang appointment. Commissioner Noli Pipo is not only qualified — he is eminently deserving. 

Thank you,  Mr. Chair.”

“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, Goodmorning. 

I am here today to manifest my full support for the confirmation of the appointments of 118 highly esteemed officials of the Department of National Defense individuals whose professional records and patriotic service speak for themselves. 

Each of these appointees embodies the strength, integrity, and deep commitment that our nation requires in its defenders.  They have dedicated their lives to preserving the peace, protecting our sovereignty, and upholding the rule of law. 

Allow me to take this moment to extend my heartfelt recognition to some of our outstanding appointees who are currently serving in my home province of Nueva Ecija — Brigadier General Eugenio Julio Osias IV, Colonel Paulo Baylon, and Colonel Harry Baliaga Jr.  I also wish to recognize Colonel Benedict Harvey Gernale and Colonel Anthony Tan, whose hometowns are likewise in Nueva Ecija. Buong puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa inyong sipag at dedikasyon sa pagseserbisyo. 

I would like to manifest my general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees. 

Congratulations sa inyong lahat, at sana’y magpatuloy kayong maglingkod nang may puso, dangal at tapang.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.”