Negrenses mourned the loss of former governor Alfredo Marañon Jr, who had served the province for 9 years.

Marañon, 84, passed away in a hospital here on Thursday night, October 1, due to complications associated with his cardiac health.

His remains were brought to the Provincial Capitol on Friday, October 2, for a quick tribute led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, and the provincial government heads and employees.

The flag at the Capitol Park and Lagoon flew at half-mast.

Lacson said that Marañon was among the keenest political minds of the province.

The life he dedicated to public service spanned more than 5 decades which he spent addressing the prevalent problems of his hometown, his district, and the province, he said.

He added, “I was his vice governor for six years and it was a privilege to have worked with him and to have learned from him.”

He said the people of Negros Occidental shared the grief of his demise, and will always remain grateful for his devotion to service and his commitment to the advancement of the province.

“To his wife, Tita Marilyn, and to the entire Marañon family, I extend my sincerest condolences, prayers, and support for this monumental loss,” Lacson added.

He turned over the Philippine flag and the former governor’s portrait to the deceased’s wife, Dr Marilyn Marañon.

Marañon’s daughter, Agnes Marañon-Iida responded on behalf of the family. She also thanked the people for their love and support.

Shortly after the tribute, Marañon’s remains were brought to his hometown in Sagay City.

Marañon, a farmer and an engineer, started his public life in the 1960s when he first run as a councilor. He later became a vice mayor then elected as mayor and congressman of his district. He was also an assemblyman. – Rappler.com