MANILA, Philippines – Raly Lofamia Tejada, a prominent Filipino diplomat and former consul general in Hong Kong, died unexpectedly on Wednesday in Manila. He was 53.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed Tejada’s passing in a brief statement posted on social media, but did not provide details on the cause of death. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles and the Filipino community both in the Philippines and Hong Kong.
Tejada, known for his approachability and responsiveness, had recently completed his four-year tenure as consul general in Hong Kong. He had since taken on the role of assistant secretary in the Office of Treaties and Legal Affairs at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila.
Born on February 1, 1970, Tejada had a distinguished career in diplomacy and law. He earned his Juris Doctor in 1998 from the San Sebastian College of Law in Manila and recently completed a Master’s in Public Management at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.
Tejada is survived by his wife, a former journalist whom he met during his posting as vice consul in Hong Kong two decades ago.
Tributes poured in on social media, with many expressing shock and sadness at the loss of a diplomat described as likeable and accessible. Tejada was known for his prompt responses to journalists, often communicating via Facebook Messenger regardless of the hour.
Germinia V Aguilar-Usudan, who succeeded Tejada as consul general in Hong Kong this January, expressed her condolences but noted that the consulate was awaiting official notification regarding the circumstances of his death.
Tejada’s unexpected passing leaves a void in the Philippine diplomatic corps, where he was respected for his legal acumen and dedication to public service. His legacy as a bridge between Hong Kong and the Philippines, and his commitment to serving the Filipino community abroad, will be remembered by many.
As the diplomatic community mourns the loss of one of its own, Tejada’s life serves as a reminder of the impact one individual can have in fostering international relations and serving their countrymen abroad.
