Malacañang has extended sympathies following the death of Gary Olivar, former deputy spokesman of then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque mentioned the passing of Olivar during a televised press briefing Tuesday, June 29, saying he will be missed.
"Nakikiramay po kami sa pamilya, kasamahan sa trabaho at mahal sa buhay ni Mr. Gary Olivar, dati rin pong nagtrabaho dito sa Palasyo bilang Economic Spokesperson ng dating Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Condolences po and you will be missed (We offer our condolences to the family, work colleagues and loved ones of Mr. Gary Olivar, who previously worked in the Palace as economic spokesperson of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Condolences and you will be missed)," Roque said.
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar also expressed deepest condolences to the Olivar's family as he paid tribute to his "exemplary" work in public service.
He said Olivar was an integral political communicator of former President Arroyo on key public affairs, especially when the country faced the world financial crisis in 2009.
"His commitment and exemplary performance in public service, government communications, and information dissemination will truly be valued as we continue to endure and respond to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic," Andanar said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. We pray for the eternal repose of his soul, h added.
Olivar, who held a master's degree from UP School of Economics and another from Harvard Business School, served as deputy presidential spokesman during the Arroyo administration.
He previously served as associate professor of finance at the Asian Institute of Management and wrote a newspaper column. Olivar also became part of a group of experts who backed the Duterte government's moves for constitutional reforms to allow a shift to federalism.