Alfredo Pascual sworn in as DTI Secretary

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — International development banker and finance expert Alfredo Pascual was recently sworn in as the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration. 

According to a post by the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS), Marcos Jr. led the oathtaking of Pascual as DTI Chief last December 16, Friday. 

Pascual’s appointment was bypassed by the Commission on Appointments (CA) earlier this month. During one of his confirmation hearings, the CA criticized Pascual for being unaware of leadership issues hounding the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), which is an attached agency of the DTI.

As such, he was reappointed by the President to remain in the position. 

The OPS noted that despite initial disapproval of Pascual’s appointment, the President is confident that the secretary will continue “to accept his duties with a whole heart for his country.”