New envoy's affinity for China runs deep

Chito Sta. Romana, set to be the new Philippine ambassador to China, described his appointment by President Rodrigo Duterte as unexpected - much like his first visit to the country in 1971, which evolved from a 15-day trip into 37 years of residence.

"It's something I didn't expect. But I accept it with a deep sense of humility and with a sense of duty. I hope I'll live up to the challenges ahead," Sta. Romana, 68, said on Friday.

Appointing a "China hand" to take the critical position will help the two countries reduce misunderstandings, and it highlights Duterte's pragmatism about China, observers said.