Theresa Lazaro

Theresa Lazaro is the Foreign Secretary of the Philippines. She is newsworthy due to her active role in regional diplomacy, particularly within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and in bilateral relations with countries like Japan. Recent news highlights her involvement in several key issues. She stated that ASEAN does not recognize the recent elections in military-ruled Myanmar. She participated in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where discussions focused on promoting peace in Myanmar while avoiding legitimization of the junta. Furthermore, she oversaw the signing of defense pacts with Japan, aimed at countering China's regional assertiveness, including agreements facilitating the exchange of supplies and services between the two countries' forces. Her efforts are significant in shaping the Philippines' foreign policy and its approach to regional security and political challenges.