Ex-CSC chair Karina David dies

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Former Civil Service Commission (CSC) chairperson Karina David died Tuesday night, May 7, her family members confirmed. She was 73.

David died at the Philippine Heart Center, according to her brother, Renato Constantino Jr.

She is survived by husband University of the Philippines professor emeritus and Inquirer columnist Randy David; their children, journalist Kara David, UP Diliman Professor Dr Carlos Primo David, Nadya Melina David and Jika David; and their grandchildren, Julia, Jacinta, Xavier, Alonso, and Lila.

Prior to her sterling government service, David – the daughter of renowned nationalist and historian Renato Constantino – was at the forefront of the fight against the Marcos dictatorship, singing and composing songs as the guitarist of the activist duo Inang Laya, with Becky Abraham.

David was a former professor and head of the Department of Community Development of the University of the Philippines. She served the government for over three decades in various capacities: as DSWD undersecretary from 1986 till 1988; as Chair of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) from 1998 to 2000; as Chairperson of the  Civil Service Commission from 2001 to 2008; and, as a member of the Board of Trustees of GSIS from 2010 till 2016.

Aside from being an upright public servant, David was also active as a community organizer among the urban poor through her non-government organization Hasik. She was also a pioneering feminist. She was one of the convenors of Every Woman, a movement for gender equality and respect for women. She was also one of the founders of the Child Protection Network that aimed to help children who are victims of violence and abuse.

Ed Tadem, a UP professor and a colleague of David at the Freedom from Debt Coalition said in his Facebook post, “Just heard the very sad news that Karina Constantino David, 72, passed away last night… she will be sorely missed.”

Senator Francis Pangilinan, who was also part of the UP community, said the country lost a ” distinguished warrior for a better Philippines. She will be missed, not only by us, but also by a nation grateful for her selfless service.” – Rappler.com