MANILA, Philippines - Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has expressed sadness over the passing of former justice secretary Raul Gonzalez.
Gonzalez, former Iloilo congressman, died of multiple organ failure last week at the National Kidney Transplant Institute in Quezon City. He was 83.
The House of Representatives is expected to hold necrological services for the former congressional leader this week, officials said.
Arroyo and former members of her Cabinet offered their prayers for Gonzalez, whom she cited for his decades of public service, “especially in upholding the rule of law in the country (that) have left a legacy of justice, stability and development in his constituencies, the national government and the Republic.”
“We most admire and appreciate his staunch defense and advocacy for what was just, rightful and lawful in the face of partisan and even subversive agitation as well as media attacks,” she said.
“His mettle was on full display during destabilization attempts when he stood his ground against efforts to provoke constitutional crises,” the former president said.
“At the same time, Raul argued and orchestrated our cases before Congress and was also most solicitous and caring toward kith and kin,” she added.