Usec Roque named acting DTI chief

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has named Trade Undersecretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as acting secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, as the resignation of Alfredo Pascual as DTI chief took effect yesterday.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced yesterday the appointment of Roque, who it described as instrumental in leading the MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises) Development Group within the DTI.

“The President emphasized the importance of the Department of Trade and Industry and the need for capable leadership,” the PCO said in a statement.

“The DTI plays a pivotal role in our nation’s economic growth, particularly in supporting MSMEs. He noted Roque’s dedication and leadership in the MSME sector make her an excellent choice for the position,” the PCO added.

It said Roque oversees critical areas including the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the Bureau of Marketing Development and Promotions, the OTOP (One Town, One Product) Program Management Office and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Management Office.

She also manages the operations of the Small Business Corporation and the Cooperative Development Authority.

Roque holds a degree in Industrial Management Engineering, minor in Chemical Engineering from De La Salle University.

“The President has expressed his gratitude to Secretary Pascual for his service and contributions to the department, as he looks forward to a seamless transition under Acting Secretary Roque’s leadership,” PCO said.

Malacañang announced Pascual’s resignation on Wednesday, saying the former Cabinet official would return to the private sector. Marcos named Pascual as his trade secretary in 2022.

Prior to his appointment to the DTI, Pascual served in the Management Association of the Philippines, Institute of Corporate Directors, Asian Development Bank and Asian Institute of Management, according to reports. Pascual also served as president of the University of the Philippines. 

Reacting to Roque’s appointment, Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion said “the President could not have picked a better person to lead the Department of Trade and Industry.”

“During her time as Undersecretary for the MSME Development Group, she has proven to be a strong ally of the MSMEs, assisting in whatever way she can in pushing for policies that can benefit this critical sector of our economy,” Concepcion said.

He said Roque’s experience as a successful entrepreneur herself is a powerful credential for her new role in the DTI. “She can bring private sector perspective to the DTI and give continuity to programs that have already been set in place,” the Go Negosyo founder said.

Concepcion said Roque’s appointment also comes at a time when women are being recognized as a powerful force in business and economy. Roque will be the only other woman to lead the DTI since Lilia Bautista took on the helm in 1992. “This is definitely a step in the right direction,” he said.

Concepcion also thanked Pascual for his service to MSMEs, citing his support for the country’s MSMEs, which comprise almost all of the enterprises in the country and generate more than half of the country’s jobs.