Palace mourns passing of PH envoy to China Chito Sta. Romana

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Tuesday expressed its condolences to the family of the late Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago “Chito” Sta. Romana and praised the envoy for his efforts to strengthen Philippine-China relations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs made the announcement on Sta. Romana’s death, but made no mention of the cause.

READ: PH ambassador to China passes away — DFA

“Nagdadalamhati kami sa pagyao ni Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Cito Sta Romana. Nagbibigay pugay kami kay Ambassador Sta. Romana sa kanyang mga nagawa para tumibay ang Philippine-China relations,” acting presidential spokesman Martin Andanar said in a Palace briefings.

“Our thoughts and prayers to the Sta. Romana family,” he added.

Sta. Romana was appointed as Manila’s top diplomat to China in December 2016 “in recognition of his deep knowledge of China’s history and people.”

The DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing is coordinating with local authorities for the immediate repatriation of the ambassador’s remains.

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