IN BRIEF

PH has new envoys to UN, four countries

MALACAÑANG announced the new appointments of five diplomats who would serve as ambassadors of the Philippines to the United Nations (UN) and various countries.

Malacañang said the new appointees would lead the country’s missions to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, according to an ABS-CBN News report.

The report also said seasoned diplomat Carlos Sorreta, the Philippines’ former ambassador to Russia and DFA undersecretary, was appointed as the country’s new permanent representative to the UN. For his new assignment, he will be based in Geneva, Switzerland.

In Asia, Maria Angela Ponce was named the country’s envoy to neighboring Malaysia, while Josel Ignacio would serve as the new ambassador to India and Nepal.

BI nabs Taiwanese wanted for fraud with Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid of Maldives.

BUREAU of Immigration (BI) agents arrested a Taiwanese wanted by authorities in Taipei for largescale fraud.

The foreign fugitive was identified as Yin Chih Chou, who was nabbed inside a condominium unit along Adriatico St., Ermita, Manila.

The officials are expected to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations, which will mark its 50th year in 2024, and to further cooperation between the Philippines and Maldives in regional and global fora, including on climate change.

Manalo will also deliver a policy address to touch upon Philippines-Japan Strategic Partnership and the rulesbased order upon the invitation of Japan’s National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS).

BI fugitive search unit operatives who arrested Chou were armed with a mission order signed by BI commissioner Norman Tansingco issued upon request of Taiwanese authorities.

“He will be deported as soon as our board of commissioners issues the order for his summary deportation. He will then be included in our blacklist and perpetually banned from re-entering the Philippines,” the BI chief said. Vito Barcelo