The Philippines' key negotiator to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China named the new foreign affairs secretary in a Cabinet revamp, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Friday,

Maria Theresa Lazaro will replace Enrique Manalo, who will return to his old post as Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, replacing Antonio Lagdameo. She will assume her new post on July 31.

Lazaro, 66, had retired from the foreign service but was asked by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to return.

Lazaro negotiated a vital agreement with China on a provisional deal for the Philippine delivery of supplies to Filipino forces at Ayungin Shoal to prevent confrontations.

Signed in July 2024, the agreement seeks to ease tensions after a violent clash between Philippine Navy special forces and Chinese Coast Guard personnel on June 17, 2024 at the Philippine-occupied area. Resupply missions to the shoal since then have been peaceful.

Lazaro also leads negotiations for a crucial Code of Conduct in the South.China Sea, which aims to prevent a major conflict in the disputed waters, called West Philippine Sea by Manila. DMS