Theresa Lazaro

Theresa Lazaro is the Foreign Secretary of the Philippines. She is newsworthy due to her involvement in key regional diplomatic efforts and defense agreements. Recently, she stated that ASEAN does not recognize the elections held in military-ruled Myanmar. This stance is significant as ASEAN grapples with how to address the ongoing crisis in Myanmar without legitimizing the military junta. Furthermore, Lazaro oversaw the signing of two defense pacts between the Philippines and Japan. These agreements, including one allowing for the exchange of supplies and services, are aimed at strengthening defense cooperation amid rising tensions with China in the region. Her actions and statements reflect the Philippines' active role in ASEAN diplomacy and its strategic response to geopolitical challenges in the Asia-Pacific.