H.E. Mr. Antonio Lagdameo presented his credentials to the Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), H.E. Mr. Michael W. Lodge, as the Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to ISA, during a ceremony held in Kingston, Jamaica, on 24 July 2023.
Ambassador Lagdameo is the Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations. Before this appointment, he served as the Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom (2016-2022 and 2009-2010). He also served as the Philippine Ambassador to Spain, the Principality of Andorra (2008-2009) and Mexico, with concurrent accreditation to Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama (2007-2008). Ambassador Lagdameo was elected President of the 32nd International Maritime Organization Assembly in 2021, where he promoted seafarers’ welfare. Ambassador Lagdameo holds degrees in accounting and business management.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Lagdameo reaffirmed the support of the Philippines for the work of ISA. “This reaffirms the Philippines’ support to ISA and its critical role under UNCLOS, as it fulfills its important mandate. We believe in ensuring the fully integrated participation by developing States in ISA’s work by building capacities,” he said.
Secretary-General Lodge welcomed Ambassador Lagdameo as the new Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to ISA. “I look forward to continuing working closely with the Philippines at this crucial time in the development of a legal regime for the Area as we move towards the sustainable development of seabed mineral resources with the full participation of developing States and for the benefit of all humanity,” he said.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Shanique Gregory, Senior Communications Assistant, ISA, sgregory@isa.org.jm