Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I’ll be quick.  I know that we’re pressed for time.  It’s just that I cannot pass the day and second the nomination of Ambassador Enrique Manalo who served as a Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs from June 2022 to June 2025.  It was his tenure as Secretary when we hosted the very successful 31st Annual Meeting of the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum which was attended by 19-member countries from Europe, Asia, Oceania and America.  And, we were able to adopt all 10 resolutions that were moved during the 31st APPF drafting panel.  And, of course he was the Secretary at that time but he appointed now the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ma’am Tess Lazaro, which was instrumental for the success of that meeting.  

We’d also like to support the nominations and ad interim appointments of Ambassador Fernandez, Ambassador Hilado, Ambassador Ascalon Jr., Ambassador Gallaga, Ambassador Mendoza, Ambassador Miranda, Ambassador Novicio and all the other career officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs.  And, so I have the honor to second the motion of the Commission.  

Maraming salamat, Mr. Chairman.