Does Yasay have the skills to be foreign secretary?

Barely a month in office, Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. has drawn flak for his perceived mishandling of the Philippine-China territorial dispute. It is astounding that some of his major critics are known diplomats who have proved their mettle in the service of our country.

This brings me to wonder about the qualifications and credentials, if any, of Secretary Yasay for the foreign affairs portfolio.

What I know is Secretary Yasay finished his Bachelor of Arts degree at Central Philippine University, Iloilo City, and law degree at the University of the Philippines. He spent the martial law years in the safe haven and comfort of the United States, while others opted to slug it out against the repressive regime, risking their lives and limbs. After the country was liberated by people power, Yasay returned. Shortly thereafter, he was appointed associate commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). During his stint at the SEC, he was investigated by the Senate on a scam involving stock manipulation of BW shares.

I believe the public has the right to know the qualifications and credentials of Secretary Yasay. Does he have the competence to serve as foreign secretary?

Our territorial conflict with China is a very serious matter that we cannot allow it to be toyed with by misfits.

—REX G. RICO, rico_associates@yahoo.com