House of Representatives (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez condoled on Saturday, Dec. 28 with the entire Adiong family on the passing of former governor Soraya Alonto Adiong, whose efforts kept Marawi City together during the dark days of the siege seven years ago.

The head of the 307-strong House expressed his and the chamber’s “deepest condolences” to Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr., and their family pver the death of the former governor. 

Her passing was announced by relatives on Facebook on Friday. She would have turned 81 on Jan. 7.

“Her passing is a profound loss not only to her family but to the people she selflessly served,” Romualdez said in a statement.

Romualdez described Governor Soraya as a devoted matriarch and an extraordinary leader whose unwavering commitment and courage profoundly impacted her constituents. 

"During the Marawi siege, she stood as a symbol of hope and strength, working tirelessly with the Armed Forces and national agencies to safeguard lives and restore resilience during one of the province’s darkest times,” he said.

It was May 23, 2017 when an estimated 1,000 ISIS-inspired Maute Group terrorists occupied Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. The Philippine military drove the terrorists out after a grueling five-month battle that left the Islamic city in shambles. 

The House leader said the late former governor’s “hands-on leadership bridged the gap between the provincial government and the people it served".

“She made it her mission to listen to every community’s concerns, ensuring no voice was unheard and no need unmet. Her compassion, dedication, and service defined her tenure and set an enduring example of true public service,” he added.

Addressing Rep. Zia and Governor Mamintal, and the Adiong family, Speaker Romualdez said he and his House colleagues “share in your grief and honor the legacy of a leader who devoted her life to uplifting others".

“Governor Soraya’s memory will continue to inspire generations and serve as a guiding light for Lanao del Sur and beyond. May you find comfort in the lasting impact of her life’s work and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and leadership,” he said.

'A true mother to Lanao del Sur'

Meanwhile, other ranking congressmen also paid tribute to the legacy of the late former lady official.

Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker David “Jayjay” Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, Appropriations Chairman Zaldy Co, Tingog Reps. Yedda K. Romualdez and Jude Acidre, and Quad Comm Co-Chairs Reps. Robert Ace Barbers, Joseph Stephen “Caraps” Paduano, Bienvenido “Benny” Abante Jr., and Dan Fernandez, and Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop, Bukidnon Rep. Keith Flores, collectively hailed former governor Adiong in a separate statement.

Like Romualdez, they recognized the former governor’s critical role during the Marawi siege.

“Gov. Adiong was a true mother to Lanao del Sur, especially during its most challenging moments. Her dedication to public service brought hope and stability to her people,” the ranking solons said in a joint statement.

They emphasized her tireless efforts in personally visiting and listening to the needs of every municipality in her province, which was a testament to her commitment to bringing the government closer to the people.

“Her compassion and strength during the Marawi Siege saved countless lives and laid the foundation for the province’s recovery,” the leaders added.

Former governor Adiong was deeply respected for fostering unity and collaboration among the diverse communities of Lanao del Sur. Her leadership not only helped the province rebuild after the conflict but also inspired generations of leaders in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

The House leaders also noted her contributions as a woman leader in Mindanao, which destroyed barriers and paved the way for greater representation and inclusivity in governance.

“Gov. Adiong’s example of inclusive governance and selfless service is a guiding light for leaders, not just in Mindanao but throughout the nation,” they added.