Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno has expressed his endorsement of National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan as a strong contender for the role of Department of Agriculture (DA) chief.

During last Friday's Chat with SBED, reporters floated the idea that Balisacan could be the agriculture secretary, a suggestion that Diokno deemed a "sound proposal." 

The finance chief emphasized Balisacan's familiarity with the agricultural sector and his previous experience within the department.

Diokno also revealed that he had personally conveyed “many times” his endorsement to Balisacan, emphasizing his belief in his suitability for the agriculture secretary role. 

Balisacan's prior experience as an agriculture undersecretary during the terms of the late Senator Edgardo Angara and former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, both of whom held positions as DA secretaries, further strengthens his qualifications.

Balisacan's educational background also complements his credentials, having completed his undergraduate studies in Agricultural Economics at Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University before pursuing further education at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed himself as the chief DA. The leader said that he would not appoint a secretary until he has finished "all the hard things" first.

In light of the increasing difficulties faced by the agricultural sector, President Marcos believes that his dual role gives him a unique advantage in implementing necessary reforms. 

He asserted that stakeholders are more likely to support his initiatives as the chief executive, as they cannot easily refuse his proposals.