By Atty. Howie Calleja
To many, he was the Honorable Albert F. Del Rosario … Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary & Former Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs but to me, he was a mentor and dear friend who stood beside me not just in moments we had to fight for the betterment of our motherland but someone who likewise gave a listening ear and a calm steady voice In times we may have doubted ourselves and our advocacies. At first, you will be awed by his accomplishments but he will put you back in your comfort zone and converse as a true friend and mentor.
Professionally, Amb. Del Rosario is someone you would really emulate and follow. He was conferred the highest possible award, the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Datu, by H.E. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for his outstanding efforts in promoting foreign relations. He also received the Philippine Army Award from President Aquino for initiatives as Chairman of the Makati Foundation for Education in 1991. In early 2001, he received the EDSA II Heroes Award from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in recognition of his efforts in promoting Philippine democracy. He was recently elevated to the Xavier Hall of Fame in New York City.
Yes, Amb. Del Rosario played a key role in securing the landmark Hague ruling that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the West Philippine Sea but just recently I likewise saw in him his fervent love for the country as he joined me as co-convener of 1SAMBAYAN — a social advocacy group promoting the cause of good governance. Indeed, the Secretary´s business career spanned a vast filed which included insurance, banking, real estate, shipping, telecommunications, consumer products, retail, pharmaceutical, and food industries, among others but his love and dedication for the country is as equally unparalleled.
“We have all been set on a journey. We had no choice about when or where it started. We don’t know when, where, or how it will end. We have no map. All we know for sure is that it’s bound to end sometime. All we know is that once started, we must continue everyday, whether we feel like it or not. We start with no possessions, and when we finish we must turn in all we have accumulated. In the end, say some, we will be rewarded or punished … and that’s for sure!” (Excerpts from The Sower’s Seed by Brian Cavanaugh) Thus, seeing Amb. Del Rosario’s life unfolds before us as we come to pay tribute to him, all we can say is — This is a life well lived!
So, as I bid Adieu to a good friend allow me to offer this heartfelt prayer to our dear Amb. Del Rosario … Heavenly Father, we ask for your mercy and grace for Ambassador Albert Del Rosario’s soul as he begins his journey into eternity. Please bring him into your loving arms and grant him peace and rest. We also pray for those who are left behind, that they will find comfort and hope in your presence and the promise of eternal life. May Amb. Del Rosario’s soul rest in peace and enjoy the fullness of your love. In your precious name we pray, Amen.