Manila, July 1 (AseanAll)  — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has sworn in Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro as the new Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), succeeding outgoing chief Enrique Manalo, who is set to be named as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York City.

In a simple oath-taking ceremony at Malacañan Palace on July 1, 2025, Marcos also conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction on Lazaro in recognition of her leadership and vital contributions to Philippine foreign policy and diplomacy.

The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit, conferred upon individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious service to the Republic of the Philippines.

“In recognition of her distinguished and dedicated service to the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine Government in a career spanning four decades and marked by exemplary leadership in both bilateral and multilateral diplomacy,” the citation read.

Prior to her appointment as DFA head, Lazaro served as Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and Association of Southeast Asian Nations Affairs since 2021.

The President underscored Lazaro’s pivotal role in advancing Philippine interests in critical foreign policy issues, including maritime security, regional peace and stability, and multilateral cooperation under the ASEAN Political-Security Pillar.

The President also recognized her leadership in establishing and revitalizing diplomatic mechanisms with traditional and emerging partners.

The rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction is reserved for high-ranking officials who demonstrate extraordinary service to Philippine diplomacy and international relations.