MANILA, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Barack Obama has appointed a new ambassador to the Philippines, replacing Kristie Kenney who ends her tour of duty next year.

    Obama named career diplomat Harry Thomas Jr. as Kenney's successor. Thomas is yet to be confirmed by the U.S Senate.

    "It has been an extraordinary honor and privilege to serve as the Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of the Philippines for more than three and a half years," Kenney said in a statement issued Friday.

    "Ambassador-designate Harry Thomas is a personal friend of mine, an exceptional diplomat, and a wonderful person," she added.

    Thomas served most recently as Director General of the U.S. Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources. He joined the foreign service office in 1984 and served as U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh from 2003 to 2005. He was also posted in India, Zimbabwe, Nigeria and Peru.