PBBM Appoints Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as Acting DTI Secretary
ACTING DTI SEC. – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque as the Acting Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry following the resignation of Secretary Alfredo Pascual. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced this appointment on Friday, August 2.
Aldeguer-Roque, previously an undersecretary, led the DTI’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development Group. In this role, she oversaw critical areas including the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the Bureau of Marketing Development and Promotions, the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Program Management Office, and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Management Office. She also managed operations of the Small Business Corporation and the Cooperative Development Authority.
President Marcos emphasized Aldeguer-Roque’s dedication and leadership in the MSME sector, describing her as an excellent choice for the position. Aldeguer-Roque holds a BS in Industrial Management Engineering with a minor in Chemical Engineering from De La Salle University. Besides her role at the DTI, she is also the president and chief executive officer of the local clothing and skin clinic brand “Kamiseta.”
Alfredo Pascual resigned from his post to return to the private sector. Pascual is a seasoned banker and former president of the University of the Philippines.
The PCO noted that the DTI plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth, particularly in supporting MSMEs. President Marcos underscored the importance of effective leadership in this agency to ensure its success and contribution to economic development. He highlighted Aldeguer-Roque’s dedication to the MSME sector, making her a suitable candidate to lead the DTI during this transition.
Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is a government agency that promotes industry growth, trade, and investments. It supports MSMEs, ensures consumer protection, and fosters a business-friendly environment. The DTI formulates policies, regulates business practices, and encourages both local and foreign investments to drive economic development.