The legislature’s Commission on Appointments confirmed Wednesday the nomination of former environment chief Raphael Lotilla as the new Philippine ambassador to the Holy See.
READ: Environment chief Lotilla named Philippine envoy to the Holy See
Lawmakers approved Lotilla’s ad-interim appointment to the key diplomatic post, which also carries concurrent jurisdiction over the Sovereign Order of Malta.
During his confirmation hearing, Lotilla emphasized the importance of strong Philippine representation at the Vatican, especially in advancing global issues tied with the country’s foreign policy.
“These include upholding international law and multilateral institutions, the peaceful resolution of disputes, interfaith dialogue, migration, sustainable development, and the rights of migrant workers,” he said.
At present, 184 countries maintain diplomatic relations with the Holy See, in addition to the European Union, the Arab League, and various United Nations agencies.
Lotilla succeeds Ambassador Myla Grace Ragenia Macahilig, who held the post from November 2021 to February 2026 and now serves as ambassador to South Africa.
A veteran government official with more than 20 years of service, Lotilla was environment secretary from June 2005 to February 2026 and energy secretary from 2005 to 2007 and 2022 to 2025.
He also has extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy, having served as legal consultant for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and as a resource person for the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Department of Foreign Affairs.
