Lázaro José Chiang Macate, a distinguished veteran journalist at Radio Reloj, passed away early Tuesday morning due to a cardiorespiratory arrest, as confirmed by the Portal of Cuban Radio.
With a media career spanning nearly five decades in Cuba, Chiang Macate was a prominent figure in the industry.
He began his radio career in 1970 and joined the national station in October 1978, maintaining his association with it for over 40 years.
Throughout his extensive career, he focused on education-related topics, a contribution acknowledged by the sector's authorities on social media upon learning of his passing.
"The Cuban education system owes him eternal gratitude for his steadfast support, becoming a faithful chronicler of our achievements and challenges. His departure leaves a profound void," expressed the Ministry of Education on their social media channels.
The Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT) expressed condolences to the Cuban radio system's workers.
The Cuban radio community bid farewell to one of its most cherished figures. His colleagues remembered him as a demanding and passionate professional.
Radio Reloj described him as a "perpetual dissenter" in his daily endeavors and highlighted that "his energy, encouragement, and voice inspired collaborators to excel." The station noted that "his example will shine forever."
Among the accolades he received for his work were the commemorative seal from the Union of Cuban Journalists, UPEC, the 90th Anniversary Seal of Cuban Radio, and the Microphone awarded by the Radio system.
He was a member of the UPEC War Correspondents Circle and won 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 contributed to the training of other colleagues.
His family decided to have him cremated.
Radio Reloj, the only Cuban station broadcasting news and the exact time every minute, 24/7, live, was founded on July 1, 1947, in Havana and is part of the Cuban Radio system under the ICRT.
Chiang's death adds to a series of recent losses in Cuban radio journalism.
In January 2024, Alberto Ajón León, also from Radio Reloj, passed away at 75. In November 2025, announcer Lilia Rosa López died, followed by journalist Manuel Rodríguez Salas in December of the same year.
Impact of Lázaro Chiang Macate's Work in Cuban Radio
What was Lázaro Chiang Macate known for in his career?
Lázaro Chiang Macate was known for his extensive work in covering education topics and his contributions to Cuban radio journalism over nearly five decades.
What awards did Lázaro Chiang Macate receive?
He received the commemorative seal from the Union of Cuban Journalists, the 90th Anniversary Seal of Cuban Radio, and the Microphone awarded by the Radio system, among others.
How did the Cuban education sector react to his passing?
The Cuban education sector expressed eternal gratitude for his contributions, recognizing him as a faithful chronicler of their achievements and challenges.