‘Palace to appoint new envoy to China soon’

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported yesterday that Malacañang would soon announce the appointment of the country’s new ambassador to China.

DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez refused to comment on reports that DFA Undersecretary for Policy Erlinda Basilio would be appointed ambassador to China, replacing Ambassador Sonia Brady.

“I just called up and texted deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte and she said no announcement was made on the replacement of Ambassador Brady. Malacañang has not announced,” Hernandez told reporters.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said last week that President Aquino would decide on the next ambassador to Beijing sometime this week.

The President had instructed Del Rosario to start the process of finding a replacement for Brady, who suffered a stroke, to improve her chances of full recovery.

Del Rosario had submitted to the President the shortlist of candidates as next ambassador to China.

He said the DFA nominated only career officials for the post.

Del Rosario said three to four names in the shortlist are all career diplomats and experienced professionals.

Two of the candidates have been posted to China and two career officials from the DFA were recommended as next ambassador to Beijing.

But the Secretary refused to identify the candidates.