Ralph Recto Set for Inauguration as Philippines’ New Finance Secretary

MANILA: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has chosen House Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto as the new head of the Department of Finance (DOF), replacing Benjamin Diokno, as confirmed by Malacañang on Thursday. Recto, also serving as the Batangas 6th District congressman and Deputy Speaker at the House of Representatives, is scheduled to take his oath on Friday. Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil announced this development in a statement to Palace reporters. Recto’s extensive political career includes three terms in the Senate, where he held positions such as Senate President Pro Tempore and Senate Minority Leader.

According to Philippines News Agency, Recto’s academic background is equally impressive, with a bachelor’s degree in Commerce majoring in Business Management from De La Salle University-Manila, two master’s degrees in Strategic Business Economics and Public Administration, and a leadership course at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Alongside Recto, Frederick Go will also be sworn in by President Marcos as the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, as announced by Garafil.