Malacañang sent sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of veteran broadcaster and former Press Secretary Ricardo "Dong" Puno Jr. whose death was confirmed by his family on Tuesday, Feb. 15.

His family said he succumbed to a lingering illness at 12:15 p.m.
Puno served as press secretary under former President Joseph Estrada in 2000 but it was to be a short stint for he run as senator in 2001 and lost. He came back to host on ABS-CBN.
“Known for his intelligent, insightful interviews, Sec. Puno received numerous distinctions for his work in public affairs programs that helped provide the public with a better understanding of the issues of the day,” acting Presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with the loved ones of Sec. Puno as we join them in praying for his eternal repose,” he added.
READ: Ex-press secretary Dong Puno Jr dies at 76
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar remembered Puno as a “vital” Cabinet official of the Estrada administration in communicating its policies and programs.
“As a private professional, he devoted his life to journalism, law, and education to which he fulfilled managerial responsibilities, initiating actions that have contributed to the expansion of his affiliations,” he said.
Andanar added that the ex-press secretary’s dedication to his profession will always be remembered.
His friends from the media also offered their condolences via Twitter.
“#DongPuno, for me, was the original king of talk. He would ask relevant questions and proffer insights without being rude or arrogant. He would laugh with his guests (while skewering them at the same time) which made for light and lively convos. Light but never puff,” journalist Lynda Jumilla-Abalos wrote.
“Rest in peace Dong Puno. Thank you for your mentorship and your calm and collected leadership in the newsroom,” Gel Santos Relos said.