Then-senators Ralph Recto and Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (1st and 2nd from left) at the Senate in 2014 (Photo courtesy of Bongbong Marcos Facebook)
MANILA – Former colleagues in the Senate of outgoing Batangas 6th District Rep. Ralph Recto expressed their full support behind his appointment as the new Department of Finance (DOF) secretary.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said in a statement on Thursday that "more than most, Recto understands how to bridge the gap between the abstractions of mathematics and the very concrete realities that we face as a nation."
"So, I have no doubt that he will be a good Finance Secretary, who will continue to push the country along on the road to greater economic prosperity," Zubiri said.
He also recalled that Recto was always regarded in the Senate as "the resident numbers genius."
"This was not just for his mathematical ability, but more importantly for his ability to immediately see the big picture implications of these numbers," Zubiri added.
Senate Finance committee chairperson Senator Sonny Angara attested that he witnessed the "political acumen and sterling intellectual abilities" of Recto.
"His knowledge of the political and fiscal structures of the country will serve us well in the future. We wish him well," Angara said in another statement.
Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who chairs the Ways and Means panel, cited Recto's extensive experience in finance and economic policy which "makes him a valuable addition to the economic team."
"I am confident in his ability to drive initiatives that will efficiently implement reforms in the country’s tax system," Gatchalian said in, adding that he looks forward to working with Recto.
Senator Francis Escudero sees Recto as a new asset to the Marcos administration who can ensure that the country can sustain its economic gains.
"I wish him well and would like to express my support not only in the CA (Commission on Appointments) but in his endeavors as the new SOF (Secretary of Finance),” Escudero said.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said Recto deserves the position.
'Perfect choice'
Senators Grace Poe and Nancy Binay on Friday also welcomed his appointment.
Poe described Recto as an "assertive and bold Batangueño" and a "seasoned lawmaker and economist who can steer our financial state to a progressive path."
"I am certain Sec. Recto will use his competence, compassion, hard work and brilliance to better the lives of the people," Poe said.
Binay described Recto as a "perfect choice", citing his experience as an economist and contributions during his previous stint as secretary of National Economic and Development Authority and as a lawmaker.
"DS [Deputy Speaker] Recto need not start at the bottom of the learning curve. He already has a good grasp of the different scenarios, and the realities being faced by our country in these challenging times," Binay said.
"His expertise in finance and economics, and his experience in public administration are of great value to the Administration's economic team," she added.
Malacañang announced on Thursday that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed the House Deputy Speaker as the new DOF chief, replacing Benjamin Diokno.
Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said Marcos will lead Recto’s oath-taking on Friday,
Recto will give up his seat at the House of Representatives to take the Cabinet post.
‘Well-deserved’
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed his “warmest congratulations” to Recto on his “well-deserved” appointment as new DOF chief.
“His extensive knowledge and profound grasp of economics uniquely qualify him for this crucial role, making him the most fitting candidate,” Romualdez said in a statement on Friday.
He said Recto has consistently exhibited outstanding leadership throughout his distinguished career, particularly in matters related to the nation's fiscal policies.
Romualdez said as former chairperson of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Recto played a pivotal role in shaping legislation that significantly impacted the country's economic landscape.
He said Recto is a “visionary economist” who has played a key role in crafting policies aligned with the needs of the people.
“As we envision a future marked by economic resilience and prosperity, Secretary Recto's appointment reflects the caliber of leadership required. I am optimistic that his vision and experience will significantly contribute to realizing our shared goals for a more economically vibrant and inclusive Philippines under the Marcos administration,” he said.
Romualdez wished that Recto’s tenure be marked by groundbreaking initiatives that uplift the lives of the people and propel the nation toward greater heights.
Basilan Lone District Rep. Mujiv Hataman shared the same view on Recto’s appointment.
“I wholeheartedly welcome the appointment of former Senator Ralph Recto as the Secretary of the Department of Finance. Sen. Recto's extensive experience, superb competence and unyielding work ethic make him an excellent choice for this critical position,” Hataman said in another statement.
Hataman said Recto's track record as a legislator is remarkable and “comprehensive understanding of the intricate details of economic and financial matters is undoubtedly an asset as we navigate the complex challenges facing our nation.” (with a report from Zaldy De Layola/PNA)
