Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario.AP FILE PHOTO

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday said that the replacement for outgoing Secretary Albert Del Rosario is to be announced “in due course.”

At a televised press briefing, DFA spokesperson Charles Jose said: “”As to the secretary’s replacement, I think a formal announcement will be made in due course.”

The 76-year-old Del Rosario, whose resignation was announced by Malacañang on Monday, stepped down from his post citing health reasons.

“Having served our country for over 10 years, I have respectfully asked the President if I could be allowed to step down earlier than midyear due to health issues,” Del Rosario told Inquirer in a text message.

READ: Aquino accepts DFA chief Del Rosario’s resignation

The richest member of the Cabinet is said to be suffering from various health issues, including back problems which required surgery last year.

He was appointed to his post by President Benigno Aquino III on Feb. 24, 2011.

Del Rosario led the Philippine delegation during the oral arguments on the territorial dispute with China before the United Nations high tribunal last year.

He also played pivotal roles in holding the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Leaders’ Meeting in Manila, the launching of the Association Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Economic Community and the forging of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca). CDG