Julito Gardona Rada, a respected economic and business reporter at the Manila Standard for nearly 20 years, passed away on Dec. 16, 2023, at the age of 55.
He leaves behind his loving wife Jelina Sagcilo and daughters Trisha (22) and Jill Carla (13), along with four siblings. A wake is being held at Citio Curva, Poctol, Unisan, Quezon.
Rada, a resident of Amaya 1, Tanza, Cavite, suffered intracerebral hemorrhage (stroke) while on a taxi ride to his beat at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas on Dec. 14. He was brought to a barangay hall in Parañaque and hours later to San Juan de Dios Hospital in Pasay City, but succumbed to the stroke on Dec. 16.
Despite having overcome vasculitis, a rare blood vessel inflammation condition that limited his mobility during the pandemic, Rada remained dedicated to his craft. He continued diligently covering and writing about the macroeconomy, banking and finance until his sudden passing.
Joining the Manila Standard in May 2004, Rada quickly earned a reputation for his meticulous research, accurate data-driven reporting and objective analysis of the economy and banking industry. His colleagues admired his clear and concise writing style, while editors praised his integrity and fairness in tackling complex economic subjects.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rada was known for his kindness, warm humor and willingness to help. He leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication and compassion, deeply remembered by friends, colleagues and the communities he touched through his insightful reporting.
Before joining Manila Standard, he had worked as a proofreader at Electronic Publishing Ventures Inc., Manila Chronicle and Insurance World Magazine.
He studied AB English with units in Secondary Education at the Mabini College in Daet, Camarines Norte from 1987 to 1991. He finished high school at Mercedes School of Fisheries and basic education at San Roque Elementary School in Mercedes, Camarines Norte.