Manalo to Stay as Foreign Affairs Secretary Until Confirmation
Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo will continue serving as the country’s top diplomat until he receives approval from the Commission on Appointments, local officials confirmed on June 3. This development clarifies the timeline of Manalo’s transition as he awaits confirmation to assume a new post.
President Marcos previously appointed Manalo as the permanent Philippine representative to the United Nations in New York, a role he held under the last administration. However, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin explained during a press briefing that Manalo’s appointment will likely become effective on August 1, as the Commission on Appointments must first confirm him.
“In the meanwhile, he will remain as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs,” Bersamin said. “There was a misunderstanding about when he would stop performing his duties as Secretary.”
He added, “Secretary Manalo’s courtesy resignation was declined. He continues to serve as Secretary of Foreign Affairs. It’s important to clarify this to avoid confusion about his current status.”
Transition Plans and Leadership at DFA
Once Manalo steps down, DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations Ma. Theresa Lazaro is set to take over the agency’s leadership. Manalo is replacing Antonio Manuel Lagdameo as the Philippine ambassador to the United Nations, following Lagdameo’s intention to retire.
Manalo’s Extensive Diplomatic Career
Enrique Manalo brings decades of diplomatic experience to his roles. Before becoming DFA Secretary, he served as Undersecretary for Policy and as the Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva. His previous posts also include Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Belgium, Assistant Secretary for European Affairs, Minister Counselor and Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, and First Secretary and Consul at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC.
His extensive background underscores his capability to lead the country’s foreign affairs and represent the Philippines on the global stage effectively.
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