STAR's Sheila Crisostomo writes '30'

Philippine STAR reporter Sheila Villaflores Crisostomo was usually described as “walang masamang tinapay” – a Tagalog phrase which means “someone really optimistic and positive.”

- By CECILLE SUERTE FELIPE

Allan Crisostomo, Sheila’s younger brother, said she was declared dead at 10:53 p.m. on Jan. 15, at the East Avenue Medical Center, two days after she suffered a stroke.

Sheila joined her father Angel, who died in October 2024, and youngest brother Arman, who passed away in April 2003. She is survived by her mother Luzviminda, younger brother Allan, sister-in-law Acel and nieces Abby and Alecs.

Sheila joined The STAR on Dec. 1, 1990 and covered several beats, including police, education, transportation and national and local elections. She spent over 20 years of her career covering the health beat.

STAR president and CEO Miguel Belmonte expressed condolences. “So sad and sorry to hear about Sheila’s passing. She was a loyal and hardworking staff member of The STAR for so many decades. Most of all, she had a good heart, toward her co-workers and for the less fortunate. She will be greatly missed,” he said.

“The Department of Health (DOH) extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of veteran journalist Sheila Crisostomo. She was always true to her duty – asking the right questions, gathering data and helping communicate health risks and information – so that Filipino public health may be better protected. She will be missed. Our condolences to the family,” the DOH said in a statement.

Former secretary Francisco Duque III said, “I am sorry to hear that! Condolences and prayers to her bereaved family and for the eternal repose of a dearly beloved Sheila.”

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson also expressed her personal sympathies during her visit to The STAR office in Parañaque yesterday.

In a sit-down talk with Belmonte and The STAR editors, Carlson relayed her condolences to the family.

“We have learned about the loss and we express our heartfelt condolences to the family, as well as