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Veteran career diplomat Escalona is new DFA spox

Veteran career diplomat Angelica Escalona, who was educated in Japan and Australia, is the new spokesperson of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Escalona, who was introduced to the media Friday by Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro, will replace Teresita Daza, who served as DFA spokesperson under former Secretary Enrique Manalo. "We commit to provide you with timely, accurate and clear information," said Escalona. New DFA spox Angelica Escalona/Photo by Michaela Del Callar The 53-year-old career diplomat will serve as the face of the DFA at a delicate time when the Philippines is handling complex geopolitical issues like its strained relations with China and its treaty alliance with the United States. The two are regional rivals. A career diplomat since 1996, Escalona has served in various capacities at the DFA, including as Executive Director of the Office of Consular Affairs and Director of the Offices handling ASEAN, European, Asian, and American Affairs. She has represented the Philippines in key posts, most recently as Consul General in Toronto, Canada from 2023 to June 2025, as well as in Indonesia, Japan, and the US. Her work has earned her multiple honors, including the Gawad Mabini – Dakilang Kasugo and awards from the Indonesian government. Escalona, who speaks fluent Japanese, holds a Master's degree in Foreign Affairs and Trade from Monash University in Australia and a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Tsukuba University in Japan. "The Department warmly welcomes Spokesperson Angelica Escalona as she takes on this vital role," the DFA said in a statement. — Michaela Del Callar/RSJ, GMA Integrated News