Co-sponsorship Speech: Ad Interim Appointment of Mr. Ralph Recto as Secretary of the Department of Finance

Co-sponsorship Speech of Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda
Ad Interim Appointment of Mr. Ralph Recto as Secretary of the Department of Finance
13 March 2024
Session Hall, Senate of the Philippines

Mr. Chairman,

It is with distinct honor and privilege that I co-sponsor the ad interim appointment of Secretary Ralph Recto as the head of the Department of Finance. Having the opportunity to work closely with Secretary Recto for two consecutive terms in the Philippine Senate – during the 16th and 17th Congress, I can attest to his unmatched dedication to public service and his remarkable wisdom.

Together, we’ve championed laws aimed at uplifting the lives of our fellow Filipinos, from the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act to the amended version of the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability and the Go Negosyo Act. During my tenure as Deputy Speaker in the House of Representatives, and he serving as the Senate President Pro Tempore, we both pushed for the passage of key legislation, such as the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, the COVID–19 Vaccination Program, and the Financial Institutions Strategic Transfer (FIST) Act.

Each piece of legislation bears the mark of our collaborative efforts, born out of countless debates, brainstorming sessions, and shared commitment to making a difference.

But it’s not just about the laws we have passed; it’s about the camaraderie we have forged. I still remember our dynamic discussions in the session hall and the committee hearings, where our focus was not solely on politics but on finding the best solutions for our country.

His credentials speak volumes—former Senate President Pro Tempore, Minority Leader, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Director General of NEDA —each role a testament to his depth of experience and leadership skills.

While serving as the NEDA chief, Secretary Recto led efforts to bolster the Philippine economy by crafting the Economic Resiliency Plan (ERP) and subsequently proposed the Reloading Economic Acceleration Plan (REAP) to maintain progress. He also advocated for transparent oil pricing and enhanced efficiency in government project implementation. He completed a Leadership Course at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce major in Business Management from De La Salle University-Manila.

But beyond the titles and recognitions, Secretary Recto is a man of integrity and unparalleled work ethic. His commitment to inclusive growth, transparent governance, and poverty alleviation has shaped his career as a public servant.
In confirming the ad interim appointment of Ralph Recto as the head of the Department of Finance, we are not just selecting a capable leader; we are entrusting the future of our nation’s economy to someone who has a keen understanding of economic policies and has a proven track record in crafting legislation that fosters sustainable and inclusive growth.

Mr. Chairman, I therefore join the sponsor in recommending the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of the Honorable Ralph Gonzalez Recto as Secretary of Finance.