Who is he?
Jose Rene Almendras most recently served as Philippines cabinet secretary, a post revived by President Benigno Aquino in November 2012. Prior to that appointment, he was secretary of energy from 2010. Before entering government, Almendras spent 29 years in the private sector, last serving as president and chief operating officer of Manila Water. Born in Cebu City, he was a classmate of Aquino at Ateneo de Manila University.
Jose Rene Almendras speaking at the World Economic Forum on East Asia. Source: Wikimedia, used under a creative commons license.
Why is he in the news?
A long-time friend and confidante of the president, Almendras on March 8 was named interim secretary of foreign affairs after outgoing secretary Albert del Rosario’s resignation on March 7. Since Congress is adjourned for the general election campaign, there will be no hearing to confirm his position. Almendras is expected to serve until the conclusion of the Aquino administration on June 30.
What can we expect from him?
With barely 100 remaining days in office, Almendras’ window to make an impact on foreign affairs will be small. His greatest test will be in the South China Sea, which has seen increasing militarization in recent months. Departing secretary del Rosario was an instrumental driver in the Philippines’ challenge of China’s nine-dash line claim currently before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. Experts believe that decision will come in the final days of Aquino’s administration, and Almendras will play a critical role in directing Manila’s response.
Almendras is well-acquainted with China’s assertiveness in the disputed area. In 2011, during his tenure as energy chief, two Chinese patrol boats threatened a survey ship conducting seismic testing for gas near Palawan Island. Despite overlapping Chinese claims to the territory, Almendras invited major foreign oil companies to explore the offshore area. While it remains to be seen whether Almendras will be as vocal as del Rosario in criticizing China, his past indicates that he will not back down from confrontation. Almendras will likely continue the staunch defense of the Philippines’ maritime claims.
What is currently overlooked and adds to the uncertainty is the position of the presidential candidates with respect to China. For example one leading candidate is decidedly conciliatory to China – if elected that will be a big test of Manila’s role as a key US ally. Foreign policy has not historically figured significantly in Philippine elections but on this occasion it could have an impact on strategy in the South China Sea dispute irrespective of the outcome current claims in The Hague.