ON THE UNTIMELY DEMISE OF FORMER PRESIDENT FIDEL VALDEZ RAMOS

On behalf of the people of Lingayen, I extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of the Former President of the Republic of the Philippines and fellow Pangasinense, Hon. Fidel V. Ramos (FVR).

Personally, I and Pres. FVR share at least one thing in common: Lingayen is our birthplace. With respect to career, we were both part of the uniformed service: I was with the PNP, he was with the Philippine Army.

Thereafter, we both entered the realm of politics. In fact, Pres. FVR is one of the people I look up to. He served as our second parent, our godfather during our wedding with my wife, Gina Liza M. Bataoil. His meaningful and countless contributions in the selfless pursuit of public service cannot be denied. His untimely demise is a grief to many, such as in the Capital Town of Pangasinan where he was born.

As we accentuate on Pres. FVR’s great actions, I also beseech everyone’s prayers for his family that they be showered with concern, comfort, and courage to face the coming days. May we also keep on praying for the eternal repose of the soul of our brother, friend, and fellow Lingkod Bayan– President FVR.

MAYOR LEOPOLDO N. BATAOIL

Lingayen, Pangasinan