Philippine lawmakers reject Duterte's appointment of foreign minister

[MANILA] Philippine lawmakers on Wednesday rejected the appointment of Perfecto Yasay as foreign minister, eight months into his term in office, citing "various compelling issues" over his qualifications.

In a unanimous vote by a plenary session of the Congress, lawmakers moved to reject the appointment made by President Rodrigo Duterte, due to the issues levelled at Yasay.

Yasay has faced heavy scrutiny over his citizenship status since he took up the post on June 30 last year.

Philippine cabinet ministers must undergo a confirmation hearing, but these often take place long after they begin work.

REUTERS