US VP bet Paul Ryan's chief of staff is a Pinay

Vice presidential running mate Rep. Paul Ryan acknowledges the crowd at the final session of the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida August 30, 2012. / REUTERS

MANILA, Philippines - A Filipina is one of the top senior aides of US Vice Presidential candidate Paul Ryan.

Joyce Yamat Meyer of Franklin, Wisconsin heads Ryan's Washington office as his chief-of-staff.

Ryan made a speech honoring Meyer at the House of Representatives on October 13, 2009.

Ryan said he and Meyer go back a long way, having worked together in several offices since 1995.

Ryan, now a Republican nominee for the vice presidential post, said he urged his then employer, Senator Sam Brownback to make her a part of their team when her employer retired.

"I quickly recognized her great abilities," Ryan said.

"Since that time, her skills and knowledge have grown with her responsibilities. I have also been pleased to watch her become a wonderful wife, mom, and leader," he added.

In 1998, Ryan said he invited Meyer to serve as his Legislative Director when he was elected in Congress.

"I have worked with Joyce longer than anyone in my office. I am pleased to recognize Joyce Yamat Meyer for more than ten years of excellent work with me in serving the people of the First District," he said.

Meyer is a University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate.