DFA STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF PHILIPPINE AMBASSADOR TO CHINA, HIS EXCELLENY JOSE SANTIAGO “CHITO” STA. ROMANA

19 April 2022 — It is with the inconsolable grief of the Secretary and the profoundest sadness that the Department of Foreign Affairs announces the demise of Philippine Ambassador to China, His Excellency Jose Santiago “Chito” Sta. Romana.

The Philippine Embassy in Beijing is coordinating with the Chinese authorities in effecting the immediate repatriation of Ambassador Chito’s remains.

Ambassador Chito was appointed Philippine Ambassador to China on 07 December 2016 in recognition of his deep knowledge of China’s history and people. 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.

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.