Honasan breezes through CA confirmation

Sen. Panfilo Lacson and newly confirmed DICT Sec. Greg Honasan, Philippine Military Academy 1971 batchmates, banter prior to the start of the Commission on Appointments hearing on the latter’s post. (Hana Bordey)

The Commission on Appointments (CA) swiftly confirmed former senator Gregorio Honasan II as secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) on Wednesday.

Honasan said he prepared for the confirmation to assure the constitutionality of his appointment.

The former senator said President Rodrigo Duterte ordered him to connect the government to other governments, business sector and the citizenry.

“I think I was not placed or appointed as secretary as a digital lineman. The technical expertise is there and my marching orders from the President is very clear, which is connectivity. Connect government to other governments, domestic and global. Connect govt to business and connect govt to the citizens and everybody to each other,�? Honasan said.

“Second, he said, I should do it faster… Do this cheaper, if not free. That’s why we have free W-Fi and do this in a more secure manner.�?

The CA approved his appointment at the committee level within three minutes before he was confirmed during the plenary session.

Asked about committee’s fast approval, Honasan said the hard work begins outside the Senate.