12/06/2026
Remembering Michelle Fatima S. Sanchez
PTIC London mourns the passing of our dear colleague, mentor, and friend, Senior Trade Representative Michelle Fatima S. Sanchez.
STR Michelle served as the Commercial Counsellor at PTIC London from 2016 to 2025, and her mark on Philippine-UK trade relations runs deep. She was one of the driving forces behind the Philippines-UK Joint Economic and Trade Committee, a landmark framework seven years in the making, and one that finally came into being in March 2025. That achievement alone stands as a testament to her patience, her conviction, and her unwavering commitment to advancing Philippine economic development and interests on the world stage.
Those of us who closely worked alongside her knew her quiet strength and genuine warmth, always present beneath her calm and professional exterior. She leaves behind a body of work that will continue to open doors.
STR Michelle subsequently took on the role of Head of PTIC Los Angeles in July 2025, where she continued her dedicated service until her untimely passing.
She is survived by her three sisters, Myra, Melinda, and Maryola; and her nephew, Noah. To her family, please know that our hearts are with you.
Rest in peace, STR Michelle. Your legacy endures.
In Loving Memory of MICHELLE FATIMA S. SANCHEZ, Special Trade Representative (STR) of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center – Los Angeles.
12 October 1967 – 10 June 2026
The Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) mourns the passing of STR Michelle Fatima S. Sanchez, a respected colleague whose life and career were defined by dedicated service to the Department of Trade and Industry and the Filipino people.
A seasoned foreign trade representative, STR Michelle devoted decades of her professional life to advancing the Philippines’ trade, investment, and economic development interests both at home and abroad. Her distinguished career brought her to PTIC offices in Bangkok, Sydney, New York, London, and most recently Los Angeles, where she continued to champion opportunities for Filipino businesses in overseas markets.
As we grieve this profound loss, we also celebrate a life devoted to service, excellence, and country. STR Michelle will be remembered not only for her remarkable accomplishments, but also for her quiet strength, humility, and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy of service that will continue to inspire generations of trade officers and public servants.
FTSC recognizes her valuable contribution in promoting the Philippines' trade and investment interests globally during the span of her career.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family, as well as to her many friends and colleagues around the world.
May she rest in eternal peace.
