House mourns passing of former Lanao governor Adiong

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has expressed its condolences to the family and loved ones of the late former Lanao del Sur governor Soraya Alonto Adiong who passed away on Thursday.

In a statement, House leaders specifically cited her critical role during the Marawi Siege, where she demonstrated exemplary leadership in coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and national agencies to protect civilian lives and ensure the safety of her constituents.

“Gov. Adiong was a true mother to Lanao del Sur, especially during its most challenging moments,” the House leaders said.

Speaker Martin Romualdez called her passing a “profound loss” not only to her family, but to the people she selflessly served.

“Her hands-on leadership bridged the gap between the provincial government and the people it served,” Romualdez said.

He said Soraya made it her mission to listen to every community’s concerns, ensuring no voice was unheard and no need unmet.

Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong and Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Alonto Adiong Jr. were children of the late former governor.

Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, appropriations committee chair Zaldy Co, Tingog Reps. Yedda Romualdez and Jude Acidre, Antipolo City Rep. Romeo Acop, Bukidnon Rep. Keith Flores, and quad committee co-chairmen Reps. Robert Ace Barbers, Joseph Stephen Paduano, Bienvenido Abante Jr., and Dan Fernandez also issued a joint message of condolences to the Adiong family.

“Her compassion and strength during the Marawi Siege saved countless lives and laid the foundation for the province’s recovery,” the House leaders said in a joint statement.

They also said the late former governor was deeply respected for fostering unity and collaboration among the diverse communities of Lanao del Sur. She had also inspired generations of leaders in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

They maintained that Adiong’s life was a “testament to the power of servant leadership” and that “her legacy will live on in the hearts of the people she served so faithfully.”