Lazaro eyes policy continuity, calm amid China challenges as new DFA chief

Metro Manila, Philippines - Incoming Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro signaled a steady course for Philippine foreign policy, emphasizing continuity from the leadership of outgoing Secretary Enrique Manalo and a calm, bilateral approach in managing tensions with China.

“There’s no challenge. There are no different things,” Lazaro said in a media interview on Friday, May 30.

“As far as foreign policy, that’s not a problem. It’s just a continuation of what Secretary Manalo has started in the last three years,” she added.

Lazaro was appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as part of a Cabinet revamp aimed at realigning the government with public expectations.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that Marcos accepted Manalo’s courtesy resignation, paving the way for Lazaro to lead the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Manalo will serve as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations when Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo retires at the end of July.

A career diplomat, Lazaro has led the DFA’s Office of ASEAN Affairs and has held multiple overseas posts, including ambassadorial roles in Switzerland, France, and UNESCO, as well as key assignments in Australia, the United States, and Spain.

As DFA undersecretary, she was instrumental in handling bilateral relations, including sensitive discussions with China over maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

On Beijing, Lazaro acknowledged that challenges persist, but stressed the importance of people-to-people ties and diplomacy.

“We continue to move on. This is a perfect example of people-to-people relationship. We just have to look at the positive areas. The maritime issues? that’s something being dealt with bilaterally,” said Lazaro.

Chinese Ambassador Huang Xilian welcomed Lazaro’s appointment, citing her role in maintaining constructive dialogue with Chinese officials.

“She enjoyed a valuable communication with Chinese counterparts. Of course, it’s an honor to enjoy such communication with her,” said Huang.

The two recently met during an event at Bahay Tsinoy, where they reflected on the shared cultural history between Filipinos and Chinese communities.

Manila and Beijing will mark 50 years of diplomatic ties this year.

“Let’s work side by side toward an even brighter future of bilateral relations,” Huang added.

Lazaro is expected to officially assume the post of foreign affairs secretary after July 31.