PNoy visits wake of TUCP founder

CEBU, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III yesterday visited the wake of lawyer Democrito “Kito” Mendoza to pay his last respect to the late labor leader. 

The president stayed for 30 minutes and refused to grant interviews with the members of Cebu media. With him was House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Secretary to the Cabinet Rene Almendras, and Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III.

Security was very strict at the Mariners’ Court, where the wake is held, during the visit of Aquino.

The members of the Mendoza family have their photos taken with the president.

Trade Union Congress Partylist Representative Raymond Mendoza, one of the 14 children of the late labor leader, said the family was very thankful to Aquino for recognizing the contribution of his father in the labor sector.

Other than reminiscing the past, Raymond said they have not discussed anything politics with Aquino. 

“It was a personal visit, we did not discuss anything politics. He even told us that he once visited the house of papa sometime in 2010 campaign,” the congressman said.

The Associated Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines supported Aquino in the last elections.

Vice President Jejomar Binay visited the wake earlier together with some of the members of his senatorial ticket, including Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, husband of Kito’s granddaughter Yedda Marie. 

Romualdez said the demise of his “Lolo Kito” is a big loss to their family as well as to the country.

Romualdez said the grandfather of his wife unwaveringly and tirelessly fought for the promotion of the interests and the protection of the rights of every Filipino laborer.

 Kito will be laid to rest on Saturday, January 23, at Papa Kits in Liloan town.

“Request gyud na ni papa nga adto siya ilubong sa place where he was born. We have already complied with the requirements for him to be buried there,” said Raymond. — (FREEMAN)