This is to add my voice of support to the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of our fellow legislator, our colleague Cong. Rex Gatchalian as Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
His father is a close friend of my father, former President Joseph Estrada. His father served in a Cabinet position during his administration as Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers Affairs.
But more than such family history and friendly association, Secretary Gatchalian made his own name in public service, winning awards of excellence left and right for his innovative, effective governance. Valenzuela City is the envy of many highly urbanized cities today, and is considered as one of the most business friendly, most competitive and the launchpad of many groundbreaking projects. Nasa Top 10 po ang Valenzuela sa 2022 national ranking ng highly urbanized cities, samantalang 27th po ang aming bayan ng San Juan. Siguro ay marami kaming dapat matutunan sa Valenzuela at sa mga namumuno nito.
I consider DSWD as the heart of the Executive branch. So much so that its logo or department seal bears a big red heart at the center, held together by two hands. Ito po ang takbuhan ng marami nating mahihirap na kababayan na nangangailangan ng tulong. Ito po ang ahensya na unang tumutugon sa panahon ng mga kalamidad. DSWD is tasked to implement many, many programs and projects that are designed to assist the least, the last and the lost. Without proper systems, it is easy to lose focus and direction, sa dami ng kanilang programa at sa lawak ng kanilang mandato.
I therefore welcome the appointment of a young blood like Secretary Gatchalian, who at only 44 already demonstrated his focused leadership, pioneering ways, exemplary management skills and legendary work ethics in the many hats he had worn as a local chief executive and legislator. Congratulations, and again my 100% support to his confirmation.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.