Statement of Dr. Alberto G. Romulo
Secretary of Foreign Affairs

On the Return to the Private Sector of Ambassador Albert del Rosario

13 June 2006

I would like to express my deep appreciation for the outstanding work and remarkable achievements of Ambassador Albert del Rosario.

He had five solid and fruitful years as our representative in Washington and was instrumental in bringing our relations with the United States, a treaty ally and key partner, to new and greater heights.

He played a crucial role in helping move our relations forward at a time when both our countries faced both new challenges and fresh opportunities.

An untiring worker and an exemplary diplomat, he brought his private sector skills to a very public job, and in the process, strengthened our political and economic relations with the United States.  

Ambassador del Rosario also worked extensively with the Filipino American community, mobilizing them to make even greater contributions to the growth and future of our country.

Having achieved much during his time in Washington, and wishing to return to the private sector and spend more time with his family and friends back home, Ambassador del Rosario had asked that he be allowed to return to private life.

The President, with much regret and profoundly grateful for the contributions of Ambassador del Rosario to the successful pursuit of Philippine foreign policy, has accepted his resignation, effective on 8 July 2006.

I personally know of how hard Ambassador del Rosario has worked on behalf of RP-US relations and of the great sacrifices he has made in joining government. 

I congratulate Ambassador del Rosario for a job well done. I wish him well as he resumes his life as a private citizen.  END.