The Commission on Appointments (CA) convened its first session under the 20th Congress on Tuesday.
Senate President Francis Escudero automatically assumed the role of presiding officer, while Pangasinan 5th District Rep. Ramon Guico Jr. was elected vice chairperson.
Camiguin Lone District Rep. JJ Romualdo was chosen as majority leader, with Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. and Sen. Joel Villanueva elected as assistant majority leaders.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros was designated as minority leader, while LPGMA Party-list Rep. Allan Ty and Isabela 1st District Rep. Antonio Albano were named assistant minority leaders.
Lawyer Jose Flaminiano was elected Secretary, and retired PBrig. Gen. Nicasio Radovan Jr. was chosen as Sergeant-at-Arms.
The CA also began organizing its 25 standing committees.
Under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the CA must be constituted within 30 days after the opening of Congress, which began on July 28. The CA is tasked with approving or rejecting appointments made by the President of the Philippines that require confirmation.
This function serves as part of the constitutional system of checks and balances to ensure the proper functioning of government.
As of August 20, there are 89 appointments pending before the CA, including three Cabinet secretaries.
