From around the world, tributes pour in for ex-DFA chief Albert del Rosario

By: Beatrice Pinlac - 2 years ago
Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, who led the Philippines in securing the historic ruling that junked China’s sweeping claims over the West Philippine Sea, is remembered as a “staunch advocate” for the security, rights, and welfare of Filipinos in the country and around the world.

Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, who led the Philippines in securing the historic ruling that junked China’s sweeping claims over the West Philippine Sea, is remembered as a “staunch advocate” for the security, rights, and welfare of Filipinos in the country and around the world.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said this as it mourned the passing of its former chief on Tuesday, April 18, while en route to San Francisco.

READ: Ex-DFA chief Albert del Rosario dies at 83 

In recalling Del Rosario’s contributions to the Philippines’ foreign affairs, DFA said Del Rosario was “a staunch advocate of protecting and advancing national security and promoting the rights and welfare of Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad.”

DFA chief Enrique Manalo had likewise hailed del Rosario for being a “consummate diplomat and an inspiring leader, who led the DFA with integrity and unwavering commitment to public service.”

Del Rosario, who fiercely fought against China’s encroachment over the West Philippine Sea, served as the country’s chief diplomat under the Aquino administration.

Prior to this, he worked as the Philippine Ambassador to the United States.

Mourned by international community

Del Rosario leaves a legacy in foreign relations, which several diplomats underscored as they mourned his death in separate posts over social media.

Czech Republic Ambassador to the Philippines Jana Treybalová Šedivá paid tribute to Del Rosario whom she described as “a source of inspiration” that she learned much from.

“A brilliant diplomat and public servant, Secretary Del Rosario’s dedication to strengthening and deepening ties between the Czech Republic and the Philippines are demonstrated by the various key roles he played in foreign policy, especially between the Philippines and Europe,” the Czech Embassy in Manila also said.

Koshikawa Kazuhiko, the Japanese envoy to the Philippines, likewise mourned the death of Del Rosario.

“His contributions to the Philippine–Japan relationship, as symbolized by the conferment of a Japanese Decoration last year and his leadership to uphold the rule of law in the sea, will never be forgotten,” he said.

The Ambassador of the European Union to the Philippines Luc Veron likewise offered “deepest sympathy” to Del Rosario’s loved ones.

“Soft-spoken but indefatigable diplomat and patriot whose role in strengthening EU – Philippine relations was critical. Rest in peace,” he said.

United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson honored Del Rosario by citing his “dedication to the Filipino people and his commitment to the US–Philippine relationship.”

The Canadian Embassy in the Philippines joined the chorus of mourning for Del Rosario’s passing.

“Sec. Del Rosario was an outstanding diplomat who was instrumental in expanding Canada – Philippines ties,” it said.

The Embassy pointed out that under the Del Rosario-led DFA, Canada, and the Philippines strengthened its ties “in a wide range of areas, including the promotion of democratic development, international security, and the promotion and protection of human rights.

“Secretary Del Rosario was a staunch advocate of international law and the welfare of migrant workers – two thematic priorities Canada shares with the Philippines,” it further noted.

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu said Del Rosario was “a good friend to Australia and did much to deepen Australia – Philippine ties.”

Del Rosario, Yu noted, will be remembered for his commitment to rules-based international order and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The French envoy to the Philippines Michèle Boccoz was also one with Del Rosario’s family and the Filipino people in grieving the longtime diplomat’s death.

“Former foreign secretary attached to international law, charismatic diplomat, he was key in the cooperation between the Philippines and France. Today, France has lost a dear friend,” she said.

Laure Beaufils, the British Ambassador to the Philippines and to Palau, said Del Rosario was “a great man, a committed diplomat, and an inspiring public servant.”

“He was a great friend of the British, and we will miss him,” she added.

Also expressing deep sadness over Del Rosario’s death, Ireland’s Ambassador to the Philippines William Carlos recalled crossing paths with the late envoy several times.

“He was a truly inspiring diplomat and public servant,” he said.

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