Philippine Ambassador to China Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana Photo: Li Hao/GT

 

 "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ambassador Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana due to an illness," said a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry after the ambassador sadly passed away in China due to an illness on Monday.

"We are deeply grieved by the loss of a good friend and extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. We will work together with his family and the Philippine Embassy in China to properly handle follow-up matters and provide every convenience possible," said Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the ministry on Tuesday.

Ambassador Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana, 74, was well known for his profound knowledge of China. "He worked and lived in China for many years and was a long-time friend of China. After assuming the post of the Philippine Ambassador to China in 2017, he worked actively and industriously, making important contributions to promoting bilateral relations and friendship between our two peoples", noted the spokesperson.

Global Times