JOSE GAY G. PADIERNOS
19th Congress
(Assistant Minority Floor Leader, 23 August 2022 - June 2025)
19th Congress
(Assistant Minority Floor Leader, 23 August 2022 - June 2025)
SEP
07
2022
Seconding speech for GEORGE ERWIN M. GARCIA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Chairperson, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), for a term expiring on 02 February 2029, Vice Saidamen B. Pangarungan
Plenary Session No. 3, First Regular Session
Good afternoon, Mr. Chair and to my colleagues.
I take this opportunity to express my support to the confirmation of Hon. George Erwin Mojica Garcia as Chairman of the Commission on Elections.
I believe that Chairman Garcia possesses the qualification and has the experience to lead this very important government agency. His academic training with multiple degrees has prepared him well for his job, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, Bachelor of Laws, Master of Laws and Masters in Public Administration.
He has been a professional lecturer, Acting Dean of the College of Law and a Member of Board of the Regents at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. A part-time Faculty Member at the Manila Law College, the Lyceum of the Philippines, Philippine University, Philippine Law School and De La Salle University. He is acknowledged by many sources to be one of the best election lawyers in the country and has represented many prominent political personalities. He has handled various cases before the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, Office of the Ombudsman, Sandigan Bayan, Presidential Electoral Tribunal, Senate Electoral Tribunal, House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal and the Commission on Elections. I am confident that Chairman Garcia will be able to lead the Commission on Election in introducing the necessary reforms to enable it to pursue its mandate more effectively and efficiently.
I therefore manifest my whole-hearted support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable George Erwin Mojica Garcia as Chairman of the Commission on Elections.
Thank you very much.
SEP
07
2022
Seconding speech for KARLO ALEXEI BENDIGO NOGRALES, for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Chairperson, Civil Service Commission (CSC), for a term expiring on 02 February 2029, Vice Alicia Dela Rosa-Bala
Plenary Session No. 3, First Regular Session
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.
SEP
27
2022
Seconding speech for CONRADO MASONSONG ESTRELLA III for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Agrarian Reform
Plenary Session No. 7, First Regular Session
Mr. Chair, I would like to manifest my full support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Hon. Conrado Masonsong Estrella III, my partner in the 18th Congress, as Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform.
Mr. Chair, in the interest of time, may I just request that the rest of my manifestation of support be entered into the record.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
(Requested to be inserted into the record to form part of his speech)
“Secretary Estrella is an experienced public servant having occupied various positions in government.
He was a Representative of the 6th District of Pangasinan from 1987 to 1992
and from 2001 to 2010.
He was a Representative of the Abono Party-List for three (3) terms from 2013 to 2022. He was also a member of the Commission on Appointments from 2013 to 2016.
Secretary Estrella was Administrator of the National Electrification Administration from 1998 to 2000. He was Provincial Board Member, Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan from 1980 to June 1985. He was also Director of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office or MECO.
Among several distinctions and awards of Secretary Estrella are: Doctor of Humanities in Public Service, Lyceum; Northwestern University (honoris causa), Outstanding Achievers Award, Malacañang Palace, Manila, 1988; Ten Outstanding Congressmen Award for Rural Development, 1988; Most Outstanding Leadership Award, Malacañang Palace in 1984.
Being Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform is in the genes of the Estrella family, Secretary Estrella’s paternal grandfather, after whom he was named, was also appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., as Secretary and Minister of the Department of Agrarian Reform from 1971 to 1986. Secretary Estrella’s father was a member of the House of Representatives during the 7th Congress.
Secretary Estrella is clearly qualified and competent and is the best choice to head the Department of Agrarian Reform.
I, therefore, manifest my strongest support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of my friend, the Honorable Conrado Masonsong Estrella III, as the Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
SEP
27
2022
Seconding speech for MA. ANTONIA “TONI” YULO-LOYZAGA for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Environment and Natural Resources
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 7, First Regular Session
“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.”
SEP
27
2022
Sponsorship speech for MA. ESPERANZA CHRISTINA CODILLA FRASCO for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Tourism
Plenary Session No. 7, First Regular Session
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 Honorable Maria Esperanza Christina Codilla Frasco as Secretary of the Department of Tourism.
At this time when our country’s tourism industry is trying to get back from the devastating effects of the pandemic, we need someone at the helm of the Department of Tourism who can steer it with a clear vision and road map not only to attract tourists to pre-pandemic levels but to exceed the same.
Secretary Frasco fits the bill quite well. She has proven herself to be well-equipped in terms of experience, qualification and distinction.
She prepared herself early starting with her academic training. She completed her elementary education with highest honors and graduated Salutatorian in her high school class. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Legal Management and Juris Doctor’s degree, both from the Ateneo De Manila University.
Prior to her stint in public service, she was already an accomplished lawyer focusing in International Arbitration and Commercial Litigation, while simultaneously teaching International law in both the University of San Carlos and University of San Jose Recoletos.
Secretary Frasco is a member of a family of public servants. Her father is a former Representative of Ormoc City, Leyte. Her mother, Gwendolyn Garcia, is the incumbent Governor of Cebu. Her spouse, Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco, is the Representative of the Fifth District of Cebu and a Deputy Speaker of the House. Her brother, Pablo John Garcia, is the Representative of the Third District of Cebu. Her first cousin, Pablo John D. Garcia, is Mayor of Barili, Cebu and her cousin-in-law, Aljew Fernando J. Frasco, is now the Mayor of Liloan, Cebu.
Secretary Frasco was exposed early on to various cultural and socio-economic conditions at the grassroots level. She started as the Consultant of the Office of the Governor of the Province of Cebu in 2003.
This experience helped her when it was her turn to assume a greater role in public service. She first served as Mayor of the Municipality of Liloan, Cebu, where she relentlessly led innovative programs that fostered Liloan’s development towards resiliency and sustainability. She also pursued the implementation of infrastructure projects, educational support, and social protection programs that elevated the quality of life of the people in her municipality.
During her incumbency as Mayor, she was elected as the first woman President of the League of the Municipalities of the Philippines or LMP, Cebu Chapter, and, subsequently, as National Vice President for the Visayas of the LMP.
Her leadership earned Liloan several awards, including the Top Model Municipality from the Manila Times in 2019, and the Most Competitive Municipality in the Philippines on the aspect of Resilience from the Department of Trade and Industry.
On top of this, Secretary Frasco herself was granted the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Regional Award by the Civil Service Commission and was cited as the Top Performing Mayor in Region VII by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Survey last 2021.
Among Secretary Frasco’s many legacies as Mayor of the Municipality of Liloan, is for four (4) consecutive years of Unqualified Opinion rating from the Commission on Audit, from 2017 to 2021. This is a strong affirmation of her integrity and transparency as a public servant.
The trust and confidence reposed on her by her constituents who elected her for a third term as a Mayor could have made her stay in Cebu. However, upon the call of the President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., she accepted the challenge and took the heavier responsibility of becoming the Secretary of the Department of Tourism.
Less than three (3) months since she assumed her post, Secretary Frasco has already laid out clear and promising programs that will not only allow for the recovery of the tourism industry but also to strengthen the position of Philippine tourism on a global scale.
Remarkably, her ideas and insights are products of her listening tours – a series of meetings that she conducted with key tourism stakeholders to identify their concerns and encourage their active participation in the recovery process.
She plans to focus on farm tourism and continue the programs which are already working and where she is familiar with. Her aim is to enhance tourism experience as well as increase the livelihood and economic opportunities of tourism workers. Foremost in her objectives is to promote and develop tourist destinations across the country.
Secretary Frasco is characterized by sources as a competent, intelligent, reliable and down-to-earth individual.
Secretary Frasco is, indeed, a valuable addition to the Executive Department and, without doubt, a great asset to this Administration. Our country deserves nothing less but a person bestowed with passion for the tourism industry and love for the country.
Mr. Chair, the Committee on Tourism and Economic Development recommends, and I move, that the Honorable Commission on Appointments confirms and approves the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Ma. Esperanza Christina Codilla Frasco as the Secretary of the Department of Tourism.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
SEP
28
2022
Seconding speech for AMENAH FLAMINIANO PANGANDAMAN for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Budget and Management
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 8, First Regular Session
“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.”
SEP
28
2022
Seconding speech for ENRIQUE AUSTRIA MANALO for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 8, First Regular Session
Mr. Chair, I would like to manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Enrique Austria Manalo as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Mr. Chair, in the interest of time may I just request that the rest of my manifestation of support be read into the records.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
“Secretary Manalo obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Master of Arts degrees both from the University of the Philippines.
He is a career diplomat and has had several postings in various jurisdictions and assignments at the Department of Foreign Affairs, among which are the following:
1. Permanent Representative to the United Nations
2. Undersecretary (Deputy Minister) for Policy, Department of Foreign Affairs
3. Acting Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs
4. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
5. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary (Non-Resident) to the Republic of Ireland
6. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg,
and Head of the Philippine Mission to the European Union
7. Undersecretary for Policy, Department of Foreign Affairs
8. Ambassador and Permanent Representative, Republic of the Philippines Mission to the United Nations and other International Organizations
9. Deputy, Permanent Representative (Charge d’ Affaires, a.i.), Philippine Mission to the United Nations
In recognition of his stellar performance in his various assignments, he has received various awards, including:
1. Order of Lakandula, Rank of Bayani (Grand Cross)
2. Felipe Agoncillo Lifetime Service Award (FALSA)
3. Gawad Mabini with the Rank of Dakilang Kamanong (Grand Cross)
4. Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Gold Distinction)
Secretary Manalo is well-prepared for his current assignment. He has the following Service Eligibilities:
1.Career Ministers Examinations, 1991
2. Foreign Service Officer Examinations, 1978 (Rating: 83.50%)
3. Civil Service Examination, 1976 (Rating: 82.60%)
Secretary Manalo is the only son of the late spouses Armando D. Manalo, a retired diplomat and journalist and Jimena Austria, both from Manila.
He is characterized by sources as an intelligent, eloquent, hardworking, and conscientious individual and is described as a highly motivated, goal-oriented and devoted family man to his wife and sons. He is practicing Roman Catholic.
Secretary Manalo was supposedly chosen by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “...in view of his long and distinguished career in the Philippine Foreign Service and his vast experience in diplomacy…”, as well as fitness “xxx to effectively advance” the country’s interests in the international stage in the face of formidable challenges”.
He is characterized by DFA sources as a highly respected and well-liked foreign service officer on account of his friendly and accommodating nature. He is also recognized for his excellent leadership qualities and motivational skills.
Having gone over his record as a distinguished diplomat, there is no doubt in my mind that the President made the right choice of putting a career diplomat in the person of Secretary Manalo at the helm of the DFA.
I, therefore, manifest my support to the confirmation of the ad-interim appointment of the Honorable Enrique Austria Manalo as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
SEP
28
2022
Seconding speech for NESAURO HERNANDEZ FIRME for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Member, Representing the Academe, Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines, for a term expiring on 09 July 2026, Vice Noel G. Tijam
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 8, First Regular Session
“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.”
NOV
22
2022
Seconding speech for MANUEL MANLIGAS BONOAN for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Public Works and Highways
Plenary Session No. 9, First Regular Session
Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
I am privileged to stand here today to manifest my strong support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Manuel Manligas Bonoan as Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Secretary Bonoan is no stranger to DPWH having retired from the Department as Senior Undersecretary in 2010 after serving for 44 years. He practically started his career in the department and slowly worked his way up to the top. He rose from the ranks in the department, from being a Civil Engineering Aide all the way up to being a Senior Undersecretary.
His excellent work has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards from notable institutions, such as:
1. Most Outstanding Civil Engineer Award from the Professional Regulation Commission in 2006
2. Outstanding Alumnus Award in Government Service from the Mapua Institute of Technology CE En SE Alumni
Association in 2003
3. Most Outstanding Millennium Consultant from the Society of Philippine Accredited Consultants Inc. (SPAC) in
2000
He has also been recognized by his peers and has been elected to high positions in the various organizations he has joined:
1. Past President, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE)
2. Past President, Society of Philippine Accredited Consultants Inc. (SPAC)
3. Past President, Road Engineering Association of the Philippines (REAP)
After retiring from the department in 2010, Secretary Bonoan’s talent and expertise was harnessed by the private sector when he was invited to become a Consultant Adviser of the Infrastructure Sector of San Miguel Corporation and thereafter the President and Chief Operating Officer of Skyway Operations and Maintenance Corporations (SOMCO).
Secretary Bonoan has been characterized by various sources as an amiable, mild-mannered, principled and highly accomplished individual. He is noted for being a devout Roman Catholic and a responsible family man to his spouse and children. He is well-regarded for his modest and unassuming persona and known for being enormously proud of his Ilocano heritage and roots.
Secretary Bonoan had to make a great sacrifice by giving up his lucrative job in the private sector and accepting the post offered to him by the President so that he will be able to have a lasting legacy for the country by helping the President succeed in his public works agenda. It is, therefore, but fitting that we allow this good man to cap his career at the helm of the Department he has served for so long and so well.
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 Manuel Manligas Bonoan as the Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
NOV
23
2022
Seconding speech for LUCAS PURUGGANAN BERSAMIN for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Executive Secretary, Office of the President
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 10, First Regular Session
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.
NOV
23
2022
Seconding speech for BENJAMIN ESTOISTA DIOKNO for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Finance
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 10, First Regular Session
“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 Benjamin Estoista Diokno as Secretary of the Department of Finance (DOF).
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) was under the leadership of Secretary Diokno, as its Governor, during the outbreak of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Because of his hold and fast execution of reforms, the BSP was able to stimulate economic recovery. This led the BSP in receiving several awards and recognitions from international organizations. Secretary Diokno was likewise named as the Global Central Banker of the Year for 2022 and the Asia Pacific Central Banker of the Year also for 2022 by the Banker, a banking, finance, and business magazine owned by the Financial Times. This recognition as the best central banker in the world was the first for the Philippines.
Acknowledged for putting a high premium on continuing education, Secretary Diokno obtained his:
1. Doctorate in Philosophy in Economics from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs in New York, USA
2. Master of Arts in Political Economy from the Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, USA
3. Master of Arts in Economics, Certificate in Development Economics, Master of Public Administration and Bachelor of Arts
in Public Administration, all from the University of the Philippines -- Diliman
Secretary Diokno is no stranger to public service. Before he became the Governor of the BSP, he held key positions in the government such as:
1.Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary under President Rodrigo Roa Duterte from 2016 to 2019 and under President Joseph
Ejercito Estrada from 1998 to 2001
2. Fiscal Adviser to the Philippine Senate
3. Chair of the Board of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA)
4. Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine National Oil Company
Concurrent to his position as the Governor of the BSP, he also served as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the:
1. Monetary Board
2. Anti-Money Laundering Council
3. Financial Stability Coordination Council
4. Financial Sector Forum
5. The Philippine International Convention Center
He also served as a member of the Board of Directors of a number of government bodies, some of which are the
1. Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation
2. Philippine Export-Import Credit Agency
3. Philippine Retirement Authority
All of these, Secretary Diokno performed while being a:
1. Professor
2. Published Author
3. Political and Economic Commentator
4. Member and past President of the Rotary Club of Manila Inc.
5. Consultant in various training programs sponsored by the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the International Monetary Fund,
and other international and foreign organizations
6. Member of the Philippine delegation in international meetings and summits
In fact, just a little over a month after his appointment as Secretary of Finance by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Secretary Diokno bared the government’s first-ever Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF). This is a six-year plan that is aimed at reducing deficit, promoting fiscal sustainability, and enabling robust economic growth, a first of its kind in the Philippines.
Indeed, it is Secretary Diokno’s long standing reputation of competence, credibility, diligence and brilliance which is the reason why his appointment as DOF Secretary was welcomed by various sectors and various public officials, including myself.
It is but fitting to welcome Secretary Diokno as the Head of the Department of Finance during these times when we need to steer the economy to return to, and even exceed, its pre-pandemic growth rates.
Mr. Chair, with utmost confidence and conviction, I move that the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Benjamin Estoista Diokno as Secretary of the Department of Finance be confirmed by the Commission on Appointments.
Thank you.”
NOV
29
2022
Seconding speech for GAMALIEL ASIS CORDOBA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Chairperson, Commission on Audit, for a term Expiring on 02 February 2029, Vice Jose C. Calida
Plenary Session No. 11, First Regular Session
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.
NOV
29
2022
Seconding speech for MARIA SUSANA VASQUEZ OPLE for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Migrant Workers
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 11, First Regular Session
“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 Maria Susana Vasquez Ople as the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.
Secretary Ople has held various positions in the government, some of which she served as an Undersecretary in the Department of Labor and Employment from 2004 to 2006, and as a Communications Consultant within the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process.
For the past eighteen (18) years, Secretary Ople has also served as the President of the Blas F. Ople Policy Center and Training Institute, a non-profit organization that focuses on giving aid to our kababayans that become victims of human trafficking.
She has taken part in several committees as an advocate against the modern day form of slavery that exists within our world today. Furthermore, aside from giving advice regarding the government’s anti human trafficking campaign and being tapped as a resource person when it comes to crafting legislation, Secretary Ople is 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.
It is without a doubt that Secretary Ople has the compassion and passion for this position. She has been on the forefront when it comes to being a voice for our domestic workers especially given her advocacies for distressed Filipino migrant workers worldwide.
Secretary Ople is both highly qualified and competent. It is her notable accomplishments, her unwavering commitment in serving our fellow kababayans, and the many endorsements received with high regard and respect from various groups and organizations of OFWs worldwide that I believe her 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 confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Maria Susana Vasquez Ople as the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
DEC
07
2022
Seconding speech for RAPHAEL PERPETUO MERCADO LOTILLA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Energy
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 12, First Regular Session
“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.”
DEC
07
2022
Seconding speech for RENATO UMALI SOLIDUM JR. for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Science and Technology
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 12, First Regular Session
“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 Renato Umali Solidum Jr. as Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
A true man of Science, Secretary Solidum earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Earth Sciences from the University of California, his Master of Science in Geological Sciences from the University of Illinois, and his Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of the Philippines.
Secretary Solidum has dedicated thirty-eight (38) years of his life serving the government. He has held significant positions in the government, some of which are: as Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services, and for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change of DOST; and as Officer-in-Charge, Director, and Chief Science Research Specialist of PHIVOLCS.
He has also served as the Commissioner for UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines; as Past President of the Geological Society of the Philippines; as Executive Committee Member of the International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth’s Interior; as a presenter of various scientific papers and scholarly works in local and international conferences; and Chair of various national and international Committees.
Secretary Solidum has been credited as the man behind the implementation of several national and global disaster risk reduction initiatives as well as the development of the innovative ICT-based Hazards and Risk Assessment Platform called GeoRiskPH.
In recognition of his service, Secretary Solidum has received a number of awards and recognition from notable institutions such as: Presidential Career Executive Service Award from the Career Executive Service Board; Excellence Award for Government Service from the Philippine Federation of Professional Associations; Presidential Lingkod ng Bayan Award from the Civil Service Commission; Outstanding Professional of the Year in the field of Geology from the Philippine Regulation Commission; and the Presidential Citation for Public Service.
I consider it, therefore, an honor and privilege to join his DOST family and the whole scientific community in manifesting my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Renato Umali Solidum Jr. as Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for JAIME JIMENEZ BAUTISTA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Transportation (DOTr)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“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.”
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for JOSE RIZALINO LARION ACUZAR for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“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 Jose Rizalino Larion Acuzar as Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.
Secretary Acuzar envisions to leave a highly ambitious legacy of building six (6) million housing units by the end of the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to achieve the “Zero Informal Settler Family 2028 Program”.
But no goal is unachievable when one man does the work with competence, dedication and hardwork. This is what Secretary Acuzar proved when he built his real estate company from the ground up.
Secretary Acuzar had his humble beginnings in Bataan, selling ice buko during his elementary days and working as a part-time cuttler-welder to send himself to school. He later on established his own welding business and eventually his own real estate firm which is now regarded as one of the biggest and most successful real estate firms in the country.
Secretary Acuzar was also lauded for his vision of preserving Philippine cultural heritage which eventually led to the development of the “Las Casas de Acuzar” which is a seaside property in Bagac, Bataan, that houses, relocated, and restored historical landmarks and structures from all over the country. In recognition of his efforts, he was listed as one of the Men Who Matters in 2017 by the People Asia Magazine. Meanwhile, Las Casas de Acuzar was adjudged as the Best Historic Hotel in Asia and the Pacific in 2021 by the Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Indeed, Secretary Acuzar’s long experience, vast knowledge and decades of expertise on housing and urban development, make him highly qualified to lead the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.
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 Jose Rizalino Larion Acuzar as Secretary of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
DEC
14
2022
Sponsorship speech for ARSENIO MOLINA BALISACAN for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
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.
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for NELSON JAVA CELIS for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Commissioner, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), for a term expiring on 02 February 2029 vice Ms. Aimee S. Torrefranca-Neri
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
It is my honor to manifest my support to the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Nelson Java Celis as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections.
Commissioner Celis obtained his Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communication Engineering from the Don Bosco Technical College. Thereafter, he obtained his Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Business Administration from the De La Salle University.
Commissioner Celis is no stranger to the COMELEC. He served as the Lead Consultant of the Office of Acting Chairperson Resurreccion Borra for two (2) years. In fact, he held the same position when Commissioner Borra was still a COMELEC Commissioner. Thereafter, he served as the Project Executive in the Development Bank of the Philippines Data Center Inc.
He is a highly regarded engineer and was once awarded as the Most Outstanding Electronics Engineer of the Philippines by the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines in 2012. He is also a highly regarded technocrat with his expertise in e-governance, risk management, data privacy, information security management, and business process management.
Commissioner Celis has written hundreds of articles on compliance and implementation of the Automated Election System Law in his regular column in The Manila Times since 2014. He has also played a vital role as Lead Consultant in implementing the two (2) billion project to automate the 2004 National Elections. I believe that his expertise and vast experience in information technology will really be a great addition in enhancing the automation of our electoral processes.
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 Nelson Java Celis as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for ERNESTO FERDINAND P. MACEDA JR. for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Commissioner, Commission on Elections (COMELEC), for a term expiring on 02 February 2029 Vice George Erwin M. Garcia
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“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.”
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and confirmation of the ad interim appointments of six (6) Foreign Service Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“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 of the appointments of all our DFA nominees. I also want to express my sincerest gratitude to all our DFA nominees for their services and utmost dedication for our country.
However, please allow me to mention my strong support, specifically, for Ambassador Bernard Faustino La Madrid Dy as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Swiss Confederation. Siya ay nanggaling sa prominenteng pamilya Dy mula sa Isabela. Siya at sampu ng kanyang pamilya ay higit limang dekada nang naglilingkod sa Isabela kung saan nagsilbi siya bilang Mayor ng Cauayan mula 2013 hanggang 2022. Muli, maraming salamat at Mabuhay ka Ambassador Dy!
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
DEC
14
2022
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of fifty-four (54) General and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 13, First Regular Session
“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.”
FEB
01
2023
Seconding speech for ALFREDO ESPINOSA PASCUAL for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 14, First Regular Session
“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 Alfredo Espinosa Pascual as Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.
Secretary Pascual has been a consistent honor student, from his elementary days up to his university years, where he ended up ranking 6th in his batch amongst 555 graduating students at the University of the Philippines.
While he started out his career as an educator, Secretary Pascual has since then held key positions in different companies and has also served in various corporate boards. Eventually, he returned to his alma mater as the Alumni Regent and subsequently served as the 20th President of the University of the Philippines, both of which are very prestigious positions to hold within the university.
Amongst the very many significant positions he has held spread throughout different organizations, one, which I believe to be of importance for this confirmation is, Secretary Pascual’s role as President and CEO from January 2018 to December 2019 at the Institute of Corporate Directors, a non-stock, not-for-profit organization “dedicated to the professionalization of Philippine corporate directorship by raising the level of corporate governance policy and practice to world-class standards.” I believe that it is in the learnings and responsibilities from the positions held by the Honorable Secretary, such as these will be of great contribution to further improve the Department of Trade and Industry. His ability to handle organizations of different cultures and tackle the problems associated with it is a great indicator that he will also be able to handle his role in the DTI as Secretary.
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 Alfredo Espinosa Pascual as the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
FEB
22
2023
Seconding speech for the consent of an appointment (1) and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of fourteen (14) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 15, First Regular Session
“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.”
MAR
15
2023
Seconding speech for CHELOY E. VELICARIA-GARAFIL for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Presidential Communications Office
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 16, First Regular Session
“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 Cheloy Estavillo Velicaria-Garafil as Secretary for the Presidential Communications Office.
Secretary Velicaria-Garafil started her career as a journalist and was inspired to become a lawyer from such work. She was a diligent working student that strived to balance the demands of school, work, and family. She eventually earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Santo Tomas. After passing the bar examinations, she co-founded a group that dedicated free legal assistance to those that could not afford a lawyer. Subsequently, the Honorable Secretary took her Master in National Security Administration in National Defense College of the Philippines. Aside from her expertise in both the fields of journalism and law, Secretary Velicaria-Garafil also decided to pursue a career as a Public Relations Practitioner. She handled clients such as SM Cares, which is dedicated to strengthening the SM Foundation’s corporate social responsibility arm.
The Honorable Secretary has served in various significant government positions, specifically as State Solicitor II, Legal Staff Chief, Service Director, and Chairperson of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Although she only served as a LTFRB Chairperson for a short period due to her decision to join the Office of the Press Secretary, she is credited for approving a reasonable fare hike increase much needed during the time of the pandemic, creating routes needed for easier mobility, and starting back pay payment to EDSA Bus Carousel operators and drivers.
Secretary Velicaria-Garafil is regarded as a dedicated and competent government official. Her vow as PCO chief “to promote transparency, accuracy, and accountability” are duties I believe she can fulfill as supported by her reputation, skills, and knowledge in the various fields of careers she has decided to enter. Thus, I can attest that she is the perfect person for the position of Presidential Communications Office given her expertise and competence in the fields of journalism, law, and public relations.
I consider it, therefore, an honor and privilege to manifest my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Cheloy Estavillo Velicaria-Garafil as Secretary of the Presidential Communications Office.
Thank you Mr. Chair.”
MAR
15
2023
Seconding speech for the consent of an appointment and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of three (3) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 16, First Regular Session
“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.”
MAY
16
2023
Seconding speech for REXLON TING GATCHALIAN for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 17, First Regular Session
“Good afternoon to my colleagues, to the Honorable Secretary and everyone present here today.
I would like to make a short manifestation for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Rexlon Ting Gatchalian as Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Despite coming from a prominent family, Secretary Gatchalian worked his way up not only within the private sector but also within the field of public service. As a matter of fact, the Honorable Secretary has already dedicated sixteen (16) years of his life serving his constituents in Valenzuela City. Under his leadership as Chief Executive, he has received distinctions, among which were the Seal of Good Education Governance for four consecutive years and receiving the Hall of Fame Award for being the Most Business-Friendly Highly Urbanized City. The Honorable Secretary was also once a member of this Commission back in 2010-2013, and continues to hold the title of being the youngest member for the Commission at the age of thirty-one (31) years old.
Secretary Gatchalian has also been recognized as the Most Outstanding Local Chief Executive by the National Capital Region Police Office. He is competent, decisive, and dedicated. To be specific, Secretary Gatchalian exemplified these qualities amidst the pandemic challenging
times by quickly acting upon the situation.
Under his leadership, Valenzuela became the first local government unit to conduct localized targeted mass testing at the onset of the pandemic and it was also one of the first cities to use an automated contact tracing system. Aside from focusing on several significant legislations, he is service oriented and truly cares about the essential needs of the people. It is also notable that the Secretary is widely admired for his focus on the Pillars of Good Governance. These include: Food, Health and Social Services, Housing, Job Generation and Trade and Industry. The Honorable Secretary’s governance and his accomplishments within the City of Valenzuela give an idea of how committed and responsible he would be as Secretary of the DSWD. Thus, it is with great honor that I manifest my support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Rexlon Ting Gatchalian as Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
MAY
16
2023
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of fifty (50) General / Flag Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 17, First Regular Session
“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.”
MAY
17
2023
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of forty-nine (49) General / Flag and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 18, First Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
On behalf of GP Partylist and myself, it is my honor to manifest my general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments of all our DND appointees.
Thank you for your services to and for our country.
Please also allow me to mention my strong support for my kababayan from Muñoz City, Nueva Ecija, Colonel Marlon Agliam Parugrug. Marami na siyang nakamit sa tagal niyang paglilingkod sa ating bayan at siya ay ipinagmamalaki naming mga Novo Ecijanos.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
MAY
23
2023
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of fifty (50) General / Flag and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
Plenary Session No. 19, First Regular Session
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.
MAY
24
2023
Sponsorship speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of forty-nine (49) General / Flag and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
Plenary Session No. 20, First Regular Session
Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good morning.
GP Partylist and myself consider 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.
It is also with great privilege to give full support to my fellow Novo Ecijanos: Col. Alvin Manuzon Sevilla, from Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, serving under the Philippine Air Force, and Col. Melvin Nariz Flores, from Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija, serving under the Philippine Army.
Thank you for your courage, dedication, and leadership.
Again, thank you very much to all our Department of National Defense Officials for their service to our country.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
AUG
09
2023
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of three (3) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 01, Second Regular Session
“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.”
AUG
30
2023
Seconding speech for ROMEO S. BRAWNER JR. for the confirmation his ad interim appointment to the rank of General, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 02, Second Regular Session
“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 confirmation and consent by this Honorable Commission of the ad interim appointments and nomination of all our AFP appointees and nominee. I also want to express my sincerest gratitude for their services and sacrifices for our country.
Again, it is my honor to endorse the confirmation and consent to the ad interim appointments and nomination of our distinguished and outstanding AFP Officers.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
SEP
13
2023
Seconding speech for GILBERTO COJUANGCO TEODORO JR. for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment of as Secretary, Department of National Defense (DND)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 03, Second Regular Session
“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.”
SEP
13
2023
Seconding speech for ERLINDA PIÑERA UY for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Member, Representing the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines, for a term expiring on 09 July 2027, vice Franklin J. Demonteverde
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 03, Second Regular Session
“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 Erlinda Piñera Uy as Member, Representing The Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines.
Fondly known as Linda to many, she was always one to strive and consequently, excel in what she does. Her academic excellence was already evident even since her law school days, where she earned a Silver Medal Award and garnered second honors. This is no surprise given her hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
These are the qualities that she has carried with her upon the start of her professional and legal careers, not only within the private field but also within the government service.
Aside from the many awards and citations that she has received, some of the career highlights that the Honorable Erlinda Piñera Uy has had was serving as:
1. The first lady magistrate of the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA);
2. The First lady Division Chairperson for the Second and Third Division;
3. The inaugural Chairperson of the Executive Committee;
4. The first Chairperson of the Committee on Ethics and Special Concerns; and,
5. The pioneer Chairperson of the GAD Committee.
She is also reportedly one of the longest-serving justices of the Court of Tax Appeals. Due to the competence and
leadership that she has exemplified during her stint as an Appellate Justice and in her thirty-two (32) years of service in the government, I have no doubt that the Honorable Erlinda Piñera Uy, as IBP representative to the JBC, will serve with the highest integrity, honor, and dedication.
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 Erlinda Piñera Uy as Member, representing The Integrated Bar of the Philippines, in the Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
SEP
13
2023
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments of three (3) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 03, Second Regular Session
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.”
DEC
05
2023
Seconding speech for TEODORO JAVIER HERBOSA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Health (DOH)
Plenary Session No. 04, Second Regular Session
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 Teodoro Javier Herbosa as Secretary of the Department of Health.
Secretary Herbosa obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of the Philippines - Diliman, and graduated as a Cum Laude. He finished his Doctor of Medicine degree from UP- Manila. He completed his postgraduate studies at Sackler Faculty of Medicine from the Tel Aviv University in Israel and earned a Diploma in Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management, which he completed as a World Health Organization Fellow from the University of Geneva, Switzerland.
Secretary Herbosa has dedicated his entire career to his advancement in the medical field. He was distinguished for the extensive public service he has rendered in the University of the Philippines System starting as a General Surgery resident in 1985. He also competently served as Chairperson of the Trauma Division of the Philippine General Hospital in 1991. He was also recognized for establishing the first university-based emergency medicine program while serving as head of emergency medicine at PGH from 1994 to 2006.
Secretary Herbosa has also made invaluable contributions to the Philippine health system. He served as the DOH Undersecretary, and concurrently the Regional Director at the DOH-National Capital Regional Office from 2010 to 2015.
He also served as a special adviser to the Philippine National Task Force Against COVID-19 during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Secretary Herbosa has also made significant contributions in medical research through his academic publications. Lauded for being an accomplished and exceptional educator, he actively championed medical and societal development by serving as professor in the University of the Philippines.
These are but some of the testaments to Secretary Herbosa's dedication, competence and leadership traits, which he would take with him as he takes the helm of the Department of Health. It is, therefore, my honor to manifest my whole-hearted support for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of Honorable Teodoro Javier Herbosa as Secretary of the Department of Health.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
DEC
05
2023
Seconding speech for FRANCISCO PE TIU LAUREL JR. for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Agriculture (DA)
Plenary Session No. 04, Second Regular Session
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.
DEC
12
2023
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of forty-nine (49) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 05, Second Regular Session
“Magandang hapon po, Mr. Chair, at sa aking mga colleagues dito sa Commission on Appointments.
Isang malaking karangalan na mapabilang sa mga magbibigay ng suporta para sa kumpirmasyon ng Commission on Appointments sa mga ad interim appointments ng ating mga appointees mula sa Department of Foreign Affairs.
At kabilang po sa mga appointees ay isa sa aking mga kababayan mula sa Guimba, Nueva Ecija na si Foreign Service Officer (“FSO”) Class II Alfred Kristoffer Amistad Guiang. Dati po siyang nagsilbi bilang Principal Assistant ng Office of the ASEAN Affairs hanggang sa maging Vice Consul at Administrative Officer ng Consulate General sa Saudi Arabia para sa Pilipinas.
Lahat po ng ating mga appointees ngayong araw na ito ay marami pong sakripisyo at paghahanda na kinailangan nilang gawin upang marating ang kani-kanilang mga positions. Ito pong kumpirmasyon nila sa Commission on Appointments ay isa lamang patunay sa kanilang mga sakripisyo, sipag, at husay. Mula po sa GP Partylist, gusto ko pong magbigay puri at pasasalamat para sa inyong mga dedikasyon at paglilingkod para sa ating bayan.
Maraming salamat po, Mr. Chair.”
MAR
06
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of forty-six (46) Generals/Flag Officers and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 06, Second Regular Session
“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.”
MAR
12
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of nine (9) Generals/Flag Officer and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 07, Second Regular Session
“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.
The DND Officials are entrusted with a vigorous undertaking of safeguarding the nation against internal and external threats, upholding peace and order, and preserving a strong and credible defense posture. Their leadership, expertise, and dedication are essential in protecting our people, defending our interests, and upholding the rule of law.
On behalf of the GP Partylist, I want to thank all of you for your services, dedications and sacrifices for our country.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
MAR
13
2024
Seconding speech for RALPH GONZALEZ RECTO for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment of as Secretary, Department of Finance (DOF)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 08, Second Regular Session
“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.”
MAR
19
2024
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of one hundred twenty-nine (129) Generals and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 09, Second Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
It is with great honor and privilege to manifest our general support for the consent to the nomination and confirmation of the ad interim appointments, by this Honorable Commission, of all our DND nominee and appointees.
The DND Officers are tasked with the vital role of safeguarding the nation against threats and in maintaining peace and order. They serve as the stronghold of defense and their relentless courage and selfless devotion in upholding the nation’s sovereignty and integrity are crucial in advancing our economic and political stability.
Nais kong ibahagi ang lubos kong pagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga Opisyal ng Department of National Defense sa kanilang katapatan at walang sawang serbisyo, at dedikasyon sa pagpapanatili ng kaligtasan at kapayapaan ng ating bansa.
Special mention po sa aking mga kapwa Novo Ecijano: Col. Marvin Domingo, Col. Glenn Eugenio, Col. Domingo Robles Jr., Col. Vladimir Sta. Maria at sa mga kababayan kong mula sa Gapan, Nueva Ecija Col. Elmar Liwag at Col. Bernard Samin.
With a heart filled with appreciation and admiration for these brave and selfless nominee and appointees, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude for all their efforts and sacrifices. In the face of adversity, they never falter in their resolve to remain true to their duty to protect and to serve the nation.
On behalf of the GP Partylist, I want to thank all of you for your unwavering service,
dedication and commitment to our country.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
MAY
15
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of sixteen (16) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 10, Second Regular Session
“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.”
MAY
21
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of thirty-three (33) Generals and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 11, Second Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, magandang hapon po sa inyong lahat.
Ngayong araw na ito, tayo ay nag-kumpirma mula sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Department of National Defense. Merong mga opisyales mula sa Medical Corps, sa Philippine Army, sa Air Force, sa Navy, sa Corps of Professors, at mula sa Armed Forces of the Philippines. Iba’t iba man ang kani-kanilang pinanggalingan, hindi maipagkakaila ang kanilang sipag at galing. Walang kaduda duda na ito ay mga posisyon na kanilang pinaghirapan at pinagsikapan.
Muli, nais kong ibahagi ang lubos kong pagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga opisyales ng Department of National Defense sa kanilang katapatan at walang sawang serbisyo, at dedikasyon sa pagpapanatili ng kaligtasan at kapayapaan ng ating bansa. Now, more than ever, we value the protection of not only our country but more importantly, our people.
Isang malaking karangalan para sa GP Partylist na ipahayag ang taos pusong suporta sa confirmation ng ad interim appointments ng mga mahuhusay nating DND appointees.
Maraming salamat po, Mr. Chair.”
AUG
07
2024
Seconding speech for JUAN EDGARDO MANALANG ANGARA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Education (DepEd)
Plenary Session No. 01, Third Regular Session
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.
AUG
07
2024
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of fifteen (15) DFA Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 01, Third Regular Session
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 consent and confirmation by this Honorable Commission on the nominations and ad interim appointments of all our DFA nominees and appointees. I trust that the nominees and appointees for these positions possess the necessary qualifications, experience, and commitment to serve with integrity and excellence. Without a doubt, their consent and confirmation will not only strengthen international foreign relations and foreign policies but it will also enhance our country's security, integrity and sovereignty.
On behalf of the GP Partylist, I want to express my utmost gratitude to all of you for your services, dedications and sacrifices for our country.
Thank you. Mr. Chair.
AUG
20
2024
Seconding speech for HANS LEO JAVIER CACDAC for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 02, Third Regular Session
"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."
SEP
04
2024
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of thirty-two (32) Generals and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
Plenary Session No. 03, Third Regular Session
Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
It is my great honor and privilege to manifest our general support for the confirmation and consent to the ad interim appointments and nominations by this Honorable Commission of all our DND Officers.
These Officers are tasked with the vital role of safeguarding the nation against threats and in maintaining peace and order. They serve as the stronghold of defense and their relentless courage and selfless devotion in upholding the nation's sovereignty and integrity are crucial in advancing our economic and political stability.
With a heart filled with appreciation and admiration for these brave and selfless appointees and nominees, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude for all their efforts and sacrifices. In the face of adversity, they never falter in their resolve to remain true to their duty to protect and serve the nation.
On behalf of the GP Partylist, I want to thank all of you for your unwavering service, dedication, and commitment to our country.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
SEP
10
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of JOSE VICENCIO MEJIA as Member, Representing the Private Sector, Judicial and Bar Council, Supreme Court of the Philippines, for a term expiring on 09 July 2028 vice Toribio E. Ilao Jr.
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 04, Third Regular Session
“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.”
SEP
10
2024
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of twenty-eight (28) DFA Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 04, Third Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished and esteemed colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon. It is a great honor and privilege to stand before you today and manifest our general support to the motion to give consent to the nominations and confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the twenty-eight (28) DFA Officials by this Honorable Commission. Today marks an important milestone for each of these nominees and appointees, a giant leap of hope for our country's diplomatic community.
Ang Department of Foreign Affairs ay isang mahalagang haligi ng ating pamahalaan na nangunguna sa pagpapalakas at pagpapanatili ng diplomasya at proteksyon ng mga Pilipino sa iba't ibang panig ng mundo.
I entrust my faith and confidence in the capable hands of our nominees and appointees. I have no doubt that they possess all the necessary qualifications, experience and commitment to serve with integrity and excellence. Without a doubt, the consent and confirmation to their nominations and ad interim appointments will not only strengthen international foreign relations and foreign policies but also enhance our country's security, integrity and sovereignty.”
NOV
20
2024
Seconding speech for JUANITO VICTOR CATIBAYAN REMULLA for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 05, Third Regular Session
"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."
NOV
20
2024
Seconding speech for MARILYN B. BARUA-YAP for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Chairperson, Civil Service Commission (CSC)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 5, Third Regular Session
"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, of a truly exceptional individual, the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission Marilyn Bugarin Barua-Yap.
At a young age, she has already demonstrated exceptional knowledge when she has consistently maintained being an honor student during her elementary and high school years. She has shown incredible talents in writing and public speaking earning her a Writer of the Year Award and a Gold Medal in Public Speaking in High School. She also graduated as cum laude from the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of the Philippines. She later on sought academic development by taking up Law from the University of the Philippines, and thereafter taking several post graduate studies even obtaining a Gold Medal Award from the Ateneo De Manila University, Master in Public Management.
She has not only shown an incessant craving for knowledge and development but an impeccable fortitude in her endeavors. We are incredibly fortunate to have her join us in public service. She has extensive experience not only from the private and government sector, but also from the academe.
Alam n'yo po mapalad tayo na ang isang napakagaling at nakakabilib na taong ito ay pinili na maglingkod para sa ikauunlad ng ating lipunan. Kailangang kailangan po natin ng mga taong tulad ni Chairperson Barua-Yap upang mapaigting ang implementasyon ng mga programa na makakatulong sa pagpapaunlad ng serbisyo ng gobyerno.
The Honorable Chairperson herself, also rose from the ranks, holding positions such as Supervising Legislative Staff, Legislative Staff Chief, Director IV, and now before us as Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission. In fact, she even earned the distinction as the first woman elected Secretary General of the House of Representatives in its over 100-year history. This is no easy feat that perhaps no ordinary person would be able to achieve. This is the very reason why there is no better person for this position, as I have no doubt that the Honorable Chairperson is more than qualified and capable to take up this role.
She has always been known for her dedication and exemplary public service. I have no doubt that under the leadership of Chairperson Barua-Yap, the Civil Service Commission will further strengthen the career service and persevere in promoting morale, efficiency, and integrity of the central personnel agency of the government.
I, wholeheartedly express my full support for the confirmation of Chairperson Marilyn Barua-Yap. I am certain that her appointment will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the Civil Service Commission.
Thank you, Mr. Chair."
NOV
27
2024
Seconding speech for MA. CRISTINA ALDEQUER ROQUE for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 06, Third Regular Session
“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.”
NOV
27
2024
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of twenty-one (21) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 06, Third Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my esteemed colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
Isang malaking karangalan po ang makaharap kayo ngayon upang magpahayag ng suporta para sa ating mga kagalang-galang na appointees sa Department of Foreign Affairs. Ang DFA po ay isang napakahalagang sangay ng gobyerno. Sila po ang nangunguna sa pagpapalakas ng ating diplomatikong ugnayan sa buong mundo at sa pagtatanggol ng karapatan at kapakanan ng mga Pilipino saan mang panig ng mundo.
These Officials before us are at the forefront of international relations. Their vast experience and expertise in the field of diplomacy and trade relations as well as their dedication in public service shall be invaluable in their service in the Department. May your noble goals continue to thrive, and may your contributions further strengthen our nation’s standing in the global community.
Ako po ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa ating mga appointees. Ang kanilang malasakit at dedikasyon sa serbisyo publiko ay tunay na kahanga-hanga at isang magandang halimbawa ng pagmamahal sa ating bayan.
Buong puso po ang aking suporta sa ating consent sa mga nominations at confirmation ng mga ad interim appointments ng mga Officials na ito ng Department of Foreign Affairs.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
NOV
27
2024
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of twenty-two (22) Generals and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 06, Third Regular Session
“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.”
FEB
04
2025
Seconding speech for the consent of the appointments and for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of nineteen (19) Officials in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 08, Third Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my esteemed colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good afternoon.
Isang malaking karangalan po ang magpahayag ng suporta sa mga kagalang-galang na nominees at appointees sa Department of Foreign Affairs. Ang DFA po ang nangunguna sa pagpapalakas ng ating diplomatikong ugnayan sa buong mundo at nagsisilbing matibay na haligi sa pagtatanggol ng karapatan at kapakanan ng mga Pilipino sa iba’t ibang panig ng daigdig.
Nararapat lamang po na ating bigyang pagkilala ang serbisyo at dedikasyon ng ating mga nominees at appointees ngayong umagang ito. Mula po sa GP Partylist, taos puso po ang aking pagpapasalamat sa kanilang walang sawang malasakit at suporta sa ating bayan.
Salamat po, Mr. Chair.”
FEB
04
2025
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments and for the consent of the appointments of thirty-six (36) Generals and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 08, Third Regular Session
“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.”
JUNE
10
2025
Seconding speech for MARIA NORINA S. TANGARO-CASINGAL for the confirmation of her ad interim appointment as Commissioner, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) , for a term expiring on 02 February 2032, vice Socorro B. Inting
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 10, Third Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good morning.
I would like to manifest my full support for the confirmation of Commissioner Maria Norina Tangaro-Casingal as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
Our nominee began her career in private legal practice, but her sense of duty led her to government service in 1997, when she joined the COMELEC Legal Department as Attorney III. Mula noon, hindi na siya tumigil sa pagtutok sa mga pinakamahahalagang aspeto ng ating electoral system.
She spearheaded critical COMELEC Resolutions related to the conduct of elections. She was lauded for her notable contributions in drafting the rules and regulations as well as the implementation of the prohibition on firearms during election period — a policy that plays a crucial role in protecting the safety and integrity of our democratic process.
Ang kanyang pangalan ay kaugnay na ng husay at katapatan. She is one of those rare public servants whose work speaks louder than any title — and whose legacy is seen in the trust our people place in our elections.
And if there is one truth I can affirm without hesitation — it is this: She is more than worthy of this appointment.
Kaya po ako ay buong-pusong nakikiisa sa kumpirmasyon ng kanyang pagkatalaga bilang Commissioner ng Commission on Elections. Sa kanyang pamumuno, I am confident that the COMELEC will only grow stronger —and even more faithful to its constitutional mandate.
I wholeheartedly support the confirmation of Commissioner Maria Norina Tangaro-Casingal as Commissioner of the Commission on Elections.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.”
JUNE
10
2025
Seconding speech for NOLI RAFOL PIPO for the confirmation of his ad interim appointment as Commissioner, Commission on Elections (COMELEC) for a term expiring on 02 February 2032, vice Marlon S. Casquejo
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 10, Third Regular Session
“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.”
JUNE
10
2025
Sponsorship speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of eighty-four (84) Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Plenary Session No. 10, Third Regular Session
“Mr. Chair, my distinguished colleagues in the Commission on Appointments, good morning.
It is with great honor and pride that I am here today to support the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of eighty-four (84) exemplary men and women to key positions within the Department of National Defense.
These individuals are defenders of our sovereignty, guardians of our peace, and champions of the rule of law. Each of them brings with them a wealth of experience, unwavering commitment, and a track record of service to the nation that speaks volumes of their capabilities and dedication.
In a time when the world continues to face complex challenges to peace, security, and national stability, we must ensure that those entrusted with safeguarding our people and territory are not only capable —but exceptional. These appointees have demonstrated courage in the face of adversity, wisdom in the most critical moments, and discipline in their pursuit of duty. Their loyalty is not to position or prestige, but to the flag they have sworn to defend, and the Filipino people they have vowed to serve. They have spent years on the front lines —working tirelessly to protect the peace and order that allows our nation to thrive.
Today, we formally affirm their roles in shaping the future of our national defense. Let us remember that this is more than just a confirmation. It is a renewal of our commitment to strong leadership, sound judgment, and a secure future for all Filipinos. These 84 officials are a reflection of that promise.
To our appointees—we commend your excellence, salute your service, and entrust you with the continued mission of protecting our democracy. May your leadership inspire, your actions uphold justice, and your dedication remain steadfast.
Before I close, allow me to make special mention of Colonel Eddie Abolencia, Colonel Michael Bautista, Colonel Richard De Castro, Colonel Leilani Lucas, who are currently assigned in Nueva Ecija—my beloved hometown. Your work in ensuring the safety, stability, and development of our communities there does not go unnoticed. As a fellow Novo Ecijano, I am especially proud of your service and grateful for your continued leadership on the ground.
I would like to manifest my general support for the confirmation by this Honorable Commission on the ad interim appointments of all our DND nominees. 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.”
JUNE
11
2025
Seconding speech for the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of one hundred eighteen (118) General/Flag and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
*(submitted in writing)
Plenary Session No. 11, Third Regular Session
“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.”