Usec. Mel John I. Verzosa is a dedicated career public servant with over ten years of experience in senior roles within the executive and legislative branches. Appointed Undersecretary on August 2, 2024, he began leading the Administration Strand on August 16, 2024.
Before this appointment, he spent four years as Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). In this role, he oversaw contract reviews, including foreign-assisted projects and Public-Private Partnerships, managed case resolutions involving DPWH personnel and external stakeholders, and streamlined right-of-way acquisitions. He also held key roles within the DPWH Bids and Awards Committee for both Civil Works and Goods and Services, advancing from member to Chairperson. His commitment to enhancing public procurement standards led him to become a recognized trainer for the Government Procurement Policy Board, conducting procurement trainings across the country.
During his time at DPWH, he earned Career Executive Service Eligibility, officially joining the Roster of CES Eligibles on August 30, 2024. Previously, he served as Deputy Administrator for Operations at the National Tobacco Administration and acted as Administrator for both Malabon City and his hometown of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur, gaining valuable insight into national and local governance.
His journey in public service began in youth, as Provincial President of the Sangguniang Kabataan of Ilocos, granting him an Ex-Officio seat on the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. During this time, he pursued legal studies at San Beda College of Law, passing the Philippine Bar on March 26, 2012. After a brief period in private law practice, he committed fully to public service, where his experience continues to drive impactful governance initiatives.