The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines, led by Secretary Enrique Manalo, is set to broaden its international footprint. The expansion includes the establishment of new consulates in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, South Korea, and the United States, alongside the addition of five more regional consular offices within the Philippines, bringing the total to 42 regional offices. This move aims to enhance the services provided to Filipinos both domestically and abroad.
Secretary Manalo highlighted that post-COVID, the DFA has seen significant improvements in its consular services, with faster passport issuance and no more backlogs. He expressed the department’s commitment to further enhancements if possible.
Beyond service provision, the DFA is focused on strengthening political and economic ties with other nations. In the coming year, the department plans to deepen cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity and climate change, working with both bilateral partners and international organizations like the United Nations and ASEAN. Manalo noted the Philippines’ active role in addressing cybersecurity issues within the ASEAN region, particularly in response to cybercrimes and cyber trafficking affecting Filipinos.
On the climate front, the Philippines has been selected to host the headquarters of the Board of the Loss and Damage Fund, a move that Manalo believes will not only benefit the Philippines but also other countries vulnerable to climate change impacts.