By Alec Go
Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago “Chito” Sta. Romana who helped strengthen Philippine-China relations passed away, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced Tuesday, April 19. He was 74.
The DFA said the Philippine embassy in the Chinese capital is coordinating with authorities for the immediate repatriation of the late ambassador’s remains.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs offers its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Ambassador Chito, to our nation for its great loss. We pray for the eternal repose of his soul,” the DFA statement read.
“Under his distinguished tenure, Philippine-China relations flourished despite differences; indeed they flowered all the more in maturity and were deeply strengthened. We honor his important legacy of selfless service to the Filipino in the most challenging foreign post,” it added.
The veteran journalist was appointed as the country’s envoy in December 2016.
Meanwhile, Malacañang expressed condolences over the demise of Sta. Romana in a press briefing on Tuesday noon and hailed his contributions in improving Philippines-China bond.
“Nagdadalamhati po kami sa pagyao ni Philippine Ambassador to China, His Excellency, Jose Santiago “Chito” Sta. Romana. Nagbibigay-pugay kami kay Ambassador Sta. Romana sa kaniyang mga nagawa para tumibay ang Philippine-China relations. Our thoughts and prayers to the Sta. Romana family,” Acting Presidential Spokesperson Martin Andanar said.
In a separate statement, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian cited Sta. Romana’s part in helping the world understand China, adding that China-Philippine ties “indeed flourished” under his tenure. – gb
— ChineseEmbassyManila (@Chinaembmanila) April 19, 2022
