Japan envoy condoles with Lopez family

MANILA, Philippines — Japan Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko has offered his condolences to the Lopez family following the death of Ambassador Manuel Lopez who, he said, had an incredible legacy and impact on the bilateral relations between Japan and the Philippines.

The ambassador made the offer in a post on his Twitter @AmbJPNinPH.

“I offer my sincerest condolences to the bereaved family of Ambassador Manuel ‘Manolo’ Lopez,” said Koshikawa.

The Japanese envoy described Lopez as “a true trailblazer.”

“We will cherish his incredible legacy and impact on our bilateral relations. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.

Lopez passed away on Jan. 12, his family confirmed. He was 80.

ABS-CBN Holdings, where Lopez served as chairman and chief executive officer, also announced his passing in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Lopez was Philippine ambassador to Japan during president Benigno Aquino III’s administration from 2010 to 2016.