Carolinian takes DOE post

CEBU, Philippines - The newly appointed energy secretary is a graduate from the University of San Carlos.

Invoking the University of San Carlos motto “Scientia etVirtus”, Zenaida Ygnacio Monsada takes pride in the training she gained from the university on where she is now.

The motto which has now evolved into “Scientia, Virtus, Devotio” means “Knowledge, Leadership, Service.”

Monsada, a native of Ormoc City, was sworn in as the new energy secretary by President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang yesterday morning.

She said the values instilled in her are her armors in fulfilling her work because it requires sound, scientific judgment “especially sa energy (department), importante ang science”.

Working her way up as a licensed chemist up until her position as acting secretary of the department, Monsada said she takes credit too to the people within the department to where she is now – a cue of her leadership qualities.

Asked about how she feels of her swearing-in in Malacañang, which marks her official appointment as secretary of the controversial department, Monsada expressed mixed feelings.

“I’m very honored kay dili tanan mahatagan ani nga oportunidad but of course I also recognize the responsibility kay bug-at ni siya,” Monsada told The Freeman.

Monsada graduated BS Chemistry from the University of San Carlos in 1976. Her first government job was with the then Bureau of Mines right after graduation.

It was after the recreation of the Department of Energy (DOE) during the Ramos administration that she ‘transferred’ with the energy office as senior chemist.

Reluctant secretary

She said before her appointment as acting secretary in July she was thinking that this will only be a transition period.

“Ang ako ganahan transition ra man unta ko [pero] dawat na lang kay mao man ang gihatag (nga trabaho),” she said.

Monsada started work as acting energy secretary after Jericho Petilla resigned to run for a senatorial seat.

She recognizes that her appointment is a tough job but she believes her team of efficient, capable and reliable DOE workers and staff will make her work less ‘stressful.’

“It’s really about teamwork and I would like to give recognition to our people in the DOE because they have worked as well to serve the public,” she said.

Her first ‘to-do’ list will be to restore power in typhoon Lando-ravaged areas and find ways to get sufficient power supply on the effects of the El Niño and the upcoming 2016 national elections.

Monsada, an insider and a career executive service eligible and licensed chemist, is possibly the first secretary of the energy department who takes the post without political endorsement.

Before taking the post as energy undersecretary last year, Monsada heads the Oil Industry Management Bureau.

In 2011, the University of San Carlos awarded her the Outstanding Alumni for public service. — Vanessa A. Almeda, Day Desk Editor (FREEMAN)