US-ASEAN Business Council Mourns the Loss of Former Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Albert del Rosario

(Washington, D.C.) The US-ASEAN Business Council offers its deepest condolences to the family of former Philippine Foreign Secretary, Albert del Rosario on his passing. ​ 

Secretary del Rosario worked tirelessly in the fulfillment of his official duties as a public servant. ​ 

As the country’s top diplomat from 2011 to 2016, he spearheaded the successful arbitration case that resulted in the 2016 legal victory for the Philippines in relation to the West Philippine Sea territorial disputes. In addition, during Secretary Del Rosario’s tenure, the Philippines received its first ever investment-grade rating and hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), both of which led to active economic diplomacy under his leadership. As former Philippine Ambassador to the United States from 2001 to 2006, he was instrumental in strengthening bilateral ties and economic cooperation between the United States and the Philippines. ​ 

He was a champion of democratic values and rules-based order, fighting for an independent foreign policy through lawful and diplomatic means. Secretary del Rosario’s lasting legacy is characterized by his consistent commitment to protecting national security and upholding the welfare of Filipinos all over the world. ​ 

Secretary del Rosario will be remembered as a well-regarded diplomat and patriot who represented the Philippines with utmost courage, integrity, steadfastness, and dedication. ​