Loren Legarda. Contributed photo
MANILA, Philippines — Senator-elect Loren Legarda on Monday backed President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s economic team, even vouching for some of the officials who she herself worked with.
Marcos’ economic team comprised of Central Bank Governor Benjamin Diokno as Secretary of Finance; Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board Member Felipe Medalla as Central Bank chief; former Budget undersecretary Amenah Pangandaman as Secretary of Budget and Management; economist Arsenio Balisacan as Secretary of the National Economic Development Authority; and, former University of the Philippines President Alfredo Pascual as Secretary of Trade and Industry.
According to Legarda, she can personally attest to the competence of Diokno and Pangandaman, having worked with them closely as chair of the Senate finance committee.
She further noted that Diokno was her adviser for many years, while Pangandaman was her chief-of-staff for when she was senator in the previous congress.
“Secretary Diokno’s vast experience, here and abroad, his integrity and wisdom as head of the economic team will surely augur well as we face the twin crises of pandemic recovery, and climate change,” the four-term senator said.
“Secretary-designate Pangandaman brings to the table a deep knowledge of the budget and legislative process. She is a dedicated government worker, with an exceptional work ethic. She will be an invaluable asset to the new administration in rebuilding our economy,” she further said.
Legarda also explained that apart from them being experts in their respective fields, members of the incoming economic team are also known for their integrity and track record.
“They’re also widely respected by the business community both here and abroad,”she said.
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