Ex-DFA chief Perfecto Yasay Jr passes away

Former Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. has died, according to Manny Vargas' report on Dobol sa News TV on Friday, citing Yasay's widow, Cecile Joaquin Yasay.

Yasay, 73, reportedly died at 7:26 a.m. of Friday due to pneumonia related to his cancer.

The news was also announced on Facebook by the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP).

"We deeply regret the news of the passing of... the current Chairperson of PCU Board of Trustees and former DFA Secretary Atty. Perfecto Yasay, Jr.,” UCCP said.

Philippine Christian University (PCU) is an affiliate of UCCP. 

Current Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr. also confirmed Yasay's death on Twitter, citing a text message he received informing him that the erstwhile DFA chief has "donned the garment of immortality."

"Jun Yasay has donned the garment of immortality," text said. More important it makes him finally impervious to pain. He recommended me for my UN job. He hurt no one and helped everyone he could. He did what many fighting tyranny had to: shield themselves with US law.

— Teddy Locsin Jr. (@teddyboylocsin) June 12, 2020

"More important it makes him finally impervious to pain. He recommended me for my UN job. He hurt no one and helped everyone he could. He did what many fighting tyranny had to: shield themselves with US law," Locsin said.

Yasay was President Rodrigo Duterte’s first DFA secretary. He served as the Philippines’ top diplomat from June 2016 until March 2017 when the powerful Commission on Appointments rejected his appointment due to citizenship issues.

Yasay had also served as chairperson of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Malacañang, meanwhile, extended its condolences to Yasay's family.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of former Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary [Perfecto] Yasay, Jr.,” presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.

“As we pay tribute and honor Secretary Yasay, we offer our sincerest prayers to the Almighty to grant him eternal repose.

The DFA, likewise, mourned Yasay's passing.

"The DFA pays tribute to a sincere mentor and offers prayers of comfort to the bereaved family," the department said in a statement.

Yasay is survived by wife Marie Cecile and daughter Stephanie. Cremation of his remains is scheduled within the day. --with Michaela del Callar/KBK, GMA News