THE Commission on Appointments yesterday confirmed the appointment of Mylene Garcia-Albano as the country’s ambassador to Japan.
Garcia-Albano, wife of Isabela Gov. Rodolfo Albano III, is the Philippines’ first female ambassador to Japan.
Facing members of the foreign affairs panel, she vowed to “work actively” to protect the welfare of some 300,000 Filipinos in Japan.
“I will show them what women can do, especially the first woman ambassador to represent our country to Japan,” Garcia-Albano said.
Asked about her plans to address the concerns of Filipino “comfort women” during World War II who are still demanding justice from the Japanese government, she said she will “do all that (she) can in advancing their needs within the parameters” of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
She added that the DFA recognizes the suffering of Filipina comfort women during the second world war.
A lawyer and former representative of the 2nd district of Davao City, Garcia-Albano said her lack of experience in foreign service will not hinder her from performing her duties, adding her ability to speak and convince people about the advocacies of the government can help.
Senate president pro-tempore Loren Legarda said Garcia-Albano “will set a high standard in leadership armed with discipline and determination” in the performance of her duties.
“Her track record and dedication to public service will reaffirm the already strong bilateral relations between our country and Japan. Her compassion in serving the people first is a central tenet in ensuring the safety and well-being of over 285,739 Filipinos living in Japan,” Legarda said.
During the plenary session, the CA also confirmed the appointments of DFA officers Voltaire dela Cruz as Chief of Mission Class II, and Val Simon Taganas Roque as Career Minister.
The CA also confirmed the promotions of 50 generals and senior officers of the Armed Forces, led by Brig. Generals Stephen Agtoto, Joseph Pasamonte, and Rocky Binag.
