MANILA, Nov. 19 -- The appointment of former finance secretary Ralph Recto as the new Executive Secretary gets backing from senators who expressed confidence that his leadership and record of public service would strengthen coordination and governance in Malaca.

Senator Erwin Tulfo on Wednesday lauded Recto's appointment, citing his strong performance in steering the country's fiscal policy and safeguarding economic stability.

Tulfo said the government stands to gain from having Recto lead the Office of the Executive Secretary, noting that his "distinguished years in public service" have shown him to be an effective and trusted statesman.

He also thanked Recto for the support he extended during Tulfo's tenure as social welfare secretar...