Former Bataan congressman named legislative liaison

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino has appointed former Bataan congressman Antonio Roman, his former colleague in the House of Representatives, as the new head of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office.

Mr. Aquino also appointed Dr. Joel Rocamora, a political analyst, as lead convenor of the National Anti-Poverty Commission.

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said the President made the appointment before he left for the US last week.

He said the government is convening the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council shortly after Mr. Aquino returns from his official visit to the US.

“Even before leaving for the US, the President said convening the LEDAC would be his top priority upon his return, so I will be discussing this with NEDA Director General Cayetano Paderanga so we can set this up at the soonest possible time,” Ochoa said.

LEDAC, created in 1992, serves as an advisory body to the President on certain economic programs and policies. 

Under the law, the council meets at least once every quarter but the President may convene special meetings when necessary.

“We want to work with Congress to hammer out a common legislative agenda that addresses the needs of the different sectors,” Ochoa said.

He said members of the council will be finalized upon Mr. Aquino’s return.