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Lázaro José Chiang Macate, one of the most seasoned journalists at Radio Reloj, passed away early Tuesday morning due to a cardiorespiratory arrest, as confirmed by the Portal de la Radio Cubana.
Chiang Macate had nearly five decades of experience in the Cuban media.
He began his career in radio in 1970 and joined the national station in October 1978; he remained affiliated with it for over 40 years.
Throughout his extensive career, he specialized in covering education issues, a contribution that the authorities in the sector acknowledged on their social media upon learning of the reporter's passing.
"The Cuban education system owes an eternal gratitude for your support, becoming a faithful chronicler of our achievements and challenges. Your departure leaves a deep void," expressed the Ministry of Education on its social media.
The Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT) expressed its condolences to the workers of the Cuban radio system.
The Cuban radio community bid farewell to one of its most beloved figures. His colleagues remembered him as a demanding and passionate professional.
Radio Reloj described him as an "eternal malcontent" in his daily endeavors, and emphasized that "his energy, spirit, and voice inspired his collaborators to be better." The station added that "his example will forever shine."
Among the recognitions he received for his work are the commemorative seal from the Cuban Journalists' Union (UPEC), the 90th Anniversary seal of Radio Cubana, and the Microphone awarded by the radio system.
He belonged to the UPEC War Correspondents Circle and was the recipient of the World Journalism Award, presented by the World Council of University Authorities and the World Association of Special Education.
Journalist Yoanny Duardo Lázaro recalled that Chiang Macate also took part in the training of other colleagues.
The decision of his family was to cremate him.
Radio Reloj is the only Cuban station that broadcasts news and the exact time every minute, 24 hours a day, completely live. It was founded on July 1, 1947, in Havana and is part of the Cuban Radio system under the ICRT.
The death of Chiang adds to a recent series of losses in Cuban radio journalism.
In January 2024, Alberto Ajón León passed away, also from Radio Reloj, at the age of 75. In November 2025, the broadcaster Lilia Rosa López died, and in December of that same year, journalist Manuel Rodríguez Salas passed away.
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