Foreign embassies and diplomats expressed support and high hopes for stronger ties as Ma. Theresa Lazaro officially assumed as the new Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on July 1.
Lazaro succeeded Enrique Manalo, who is set to take the helm at the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.
United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson said the US Embassy in Manila looks forward to working with the new secretary and further elevating the US-Philippines relations.
“We at the US Embassy in the Philippines are excited to work with you to elevate the US-Philippines relations as friends, partners, and allies to even greater heights,” she said in a post on X (Twitter).
In a post on his social media account on Wednesday, Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss wished Lazaro a tenure marked with “meaningful diplomacy” and “forward-looking leadership” that strengthens bilateral ties and at the same time amplifies Manila’s presence in the international arena.
“Your leadership marks a new chapter in our shared journey of friendship and cooperation. The Embassy of Israel in Manila looks forward to working closely with you to further deepen the longstanding close ties between Israel and the Philippines,” he said.
“I am committed to my vision of building bridges of innovation and technology between our two countries. Bridges that will contribute to a better life, progress and prosperity for all.”
Prior to this new role, Lazaro served as the Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Affairs.
She has had a remarkable career in the foreign service that has largely focused on crafting Philippine foreign policy, having served multiple times at the Office of Asian and Pacific Affairs, including as its Assistant Secretary.
Lazaro served as Philippine Ambassador to Paris and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO as well as Ambassador to Switzerland, Consul General to Sydney, and Deputy Consul General to New York.
She has a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Maryknoll College and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines. (PNA)