BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno and BSP Monetary Board Member Felipe Medalla are the “best candidates” for Finance secretary and central bank chief posts, the country’s top banks said.

“Drs. Diokno and Medalla are notable economists who have the scholastic distinction and extensive experience that transcend different administrations, making them the best candidates for these roles,” Antonio Moncupa Jr., president of Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP), was quoted as saying in a BAP statement released on Friday.

Diokno and Medalla’s experience as economic managers in previous administrations, the bankers group pointed out, are key assets as the Philippines works toward economic and post-pandemic recovery.

Prior to joining the Bangko Sentral, Diokno served as secretary of the Department of Budget and Management under President Rodrigo Duterte and former president Joseph Estrada, and Medalla served as director general of the National Economic and Development Authority.

“We are confident that under their stewardship, the country will be able to successfully navigate the various fiscal and economic challenges incumbent upon us,” Moncupa concluded.

BAP also said that it will continue to collaborate with the Department of Finance and central bank on efforts that support fiscal stability and strength, as well as policies that encourage socioeconomic growth for Filipinos.