By May Anne Love Deseo
DAVAO CITY – Senator Pia Cayetano has volunteered to help President-elect Rodrigo Duterte in the selection of women leaders in his administraton.
Duterte spokesperson, Peter Tiu Laviña, announced that Cayetano acts as the adviser of the Duterte camp in matters of gender development “because of her wide experience in women and gender issues”.
Laviña said that the camp has asked for Cayetano’s assistance particularly in selecting members of
Duterte’s Cabinet secretaries and other top-ranking positions on the ground “of a gender-balanced leadership”.
Cayetano said in a press conference, Thursday, May 12 that it is important that the voice of women are heard; and that the concerns of women are addressed at the “highest level.”
“I want to assure the public that we will do everything to make sure that the best women are selected for these positions. I will also say that it is not limited to any particular cluster,” Cayetano said.
Cayetano, sister of Duterte’s running mate Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, said that she is “very excited” about working with Duterte’s incoming administration.
“I look forward to presenting to the transition team and the selection committee a complete list of qualified women to help in the administration of the Duterte Presidency,” she said.
Laviña added that on selecting the members of Duterte’s administration, he will consider these factors: nominees who share a vision towards genuine change in the country, integrity, ability, and personal sacrifice.
He said that the camp already has a shortlist, however, must undergo the vetting system and cannot be announced until Duterte is officially declared as president.
“If ever names are already identified, vetted, and then the mayor has already approved, we will from time to time announce them,” Laviña said.
Laviña said that they were advised to start working on the “economic team and the foreign affairs.”
He added that they expect all members should be in place by June 30 this year.
Meanwhile, Cayetano added that during the selection process they do not only want a “gender-balanced cabinet” but a “executive decision making people” as well.
“Whether we will have a female or a male cabinet secretary for any position, our objective is to ensure that they are gender-sensitive,” she said.(davaotoday.com)
