BENJAMIN “Kokoy” T. Romualdez, former Ambassador to the United States, People’s Republic of China, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and former Governor of Leyte Province, passed away yesterday after a lingering illness. He was 81.

Ambassador Romualdez’ career in the diplomatic service and public service spanned more than 20 years.

A son of the late Dr. Vicente Orestes Romualdez, former Dean of the Law School of St. Paul’s College in Tacloban City, he began his career in politics after working as assistant of the late Daniel Romualdez who was then Speaker of the House of Representatives. He embarked on his own political career and became governor of Leyte for several terms.

He was instrumental in the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China and became its first Philippine ambassador. He also served as ambassador to Saudi Arabia and the US.

Known for his organizational skills, he was responsible for paving the way for the state visits of President Ferdinand E. Marcos to various countries, foremost of which was the successful state visit to the US.

He is survived by his wife Juliette G. Romualdez and children Daniel, a practicing architect in New York; Philip, president and chief executive officer of Benguet Corp; Martin, Congressman of the First District of Leyte Province; and Marean, an investment banker,  married to investment banker Thomas Pompidou, in New York; sisters Imelda Marcos, Alita Martel, Conchita Yap; and brothers Alfredo and Armando.

His body lies in state at the family residence at 1 Palm Avenue, Forbes Park, Makati City.