Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar has offered sympathies over the death of Cebu City 1st District Rep. Raul del Mar, commending his remarkable public service.
Del Mar passed away Monday night at the age of 79.
"We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and loved ones, on the passing of Cebu City North District Representative Raul del Mar," Andanar said.
"His commitment to his work as the representative of one of Cebu City's districts will be remembered by the constituents he served during his tenure, particularly the underprivileged, as we remain affected by the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.
Andanar cited the accomplishments of Del Mar in shepherding his district's growth. Del Mar had served a total of nine terms as congressman since 1987.
"He has done much to serve and help the growth and development of his district on matters of infrastructures, social services, and poverty alleviation," he said.
Andanar likewise remembered Del Mar's effort to promote responsible journalism being the son of a journalist and a manager of a local newspaper. "His dedication to promote and improve a free yet responsible journalism and media landscape is truly worth noting, which led to people hailing him as 'Kampeon sa Medya,'" he said.
"We pray for the eternal repose of his soul, and for his family and loved ones to find strength in this time of grief," Andanar said.