22 December 2003 - With fond memories of her association with Secretary Blas F. Ople and inspired by the dedication, commitment and wisdom of Secretary Ople, Foreign Affairs Secretary-designate Delia Domingo Albert today said that she will carry on with the work of Secretary Ople. Secretary Delia Albert made this statement today, shortly after President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed her appointment papers today.

“I am humbled by the confidence given to me by the President and by the challenges and tasks that lay before me.  But I am fortified by the memories I have of Secretary Ople and I will carry on with his work, inspired by his dedication, commitment and wisdom,” Secretary Albert said.

Both the Palace and the Department of Foreign Affairs issued formal statements informing of the appointment of Secretary Albert. Secretary Albert was Undersecretary for International Economic Relations and one of five undersecretaries of the Department.  She will take the place of Secretary Ople who passed away of natural causes on 14 December 2003.

“Both the President and Secretary Ople have established a firm basis and a clear vision and direction for our foreign policy.  With the support of the officers and personnel of the Department, who are among the best professionals in government, I hope to provide the Filipino people with the world-class foreign service that they so justly deserve,” Secretary Albert added.

Secretary Albert said that she intends to hold a management meeting with Department officials and subsequently address the entire Department in an assembly shortly.  She said that she intends to continue with the practice of the Secretary of keeping the public informed of the work and policies of the Department.

Secretary Albert is the first lady Secretary of Foreign Affairs. END.