VETERAN newspaperman and former Manila Standard editor-in-chief Cipriano S. Roxas died Friday afternoon at the age of 76.
One of the most colorful personalities in Philippine journalism, Roxas started his newspaper career as a “mechanic” in the composing room of the pre-Martial Law Manila Times after he received a degree in English from the Far Eastern University.
He later became business editor of the defunct Philippines Herald and later became press attaché of the Philippine embassy in Washington D.C.. He also served as bureau chief of the Philippine News Agency covering Los Angeles, USA and Toronto, Canada.
In 1989, he became editor-in-chief of the Manila Standard when the newspaper was bought by the Soriano family from the Elizalde group and served in that position until 1997.
In 1999, he was named executive editor of the Manila Times. He was later named executive editor of the Journal Group of Publications.
Roxas left behind daughters Anne, Olivia, son William Lancelot (Billy Boy), siblings Margarita R. Manahan, Alicia and brother Jose Jr.. and partner Jo Efa.
Following his wishes, there will be no wake and a memorial mass will instead be held at 3:30 p.m. Sunday at Funeraria Paz Superior de luxe Chapel on Araneta Avenue in Quezon City. His remains will be cremated after the mass.
His family said there will be a “Gathering of Zip Friends” at a time and place to be announced.