By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The province of Negros Occidental is mourning the demise of former Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr.

In a statement issued by Anna Marie Marañon-McConchie on behalf of the family, she said that her father passed away at 11:38 p.m. on October 1. He would have been 85 on December 21.

“Due to Covid-19, in lieu of a public gathering to celebrate Papa’s life, a virtual gathering will be announced to allow those who cannot be with us to honor his life and achievements,” McConchie said.

She further stated they will appreciate respect for the privacy of the family during their moment of grief.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who succeeded Marañon in office, has also expressed grief over his predecessor’s passing.

He said the former governor, whom they nicknamed as “Freddie,” was among the keenest political minds of the province. The life he dedicated to public service  spans more than five decades which he spent addressing the prevalent problems of his hometown, his district and the province.

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

Lacson further stated the people of Negros Occidental shared the grief of Marañon’s demise and  will always remain grateful for his devotion to service and his commitment to the advancement of Negros Occidental.

Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, who belongs to the former’s governor’s local party United Negros Alliance (UNegA), has also expressed sympathy for the Marañon family.

“Gov. Marañon is known to many as a compassionate, honest, and humble leader. He has devoted his time and political career in ensuring the continuous progress and development of the province of Negros Occidental. His heart was with the marginalized and underprivileged. He advocated programs that uplift their living conditions. He was loved and respected by many,” Ferrer said.

Ferrer further stated that to them, Marañon was more than a leader, but a mentor and friend who had generously shared his time and wisdom to them and who had inspired them to perform their best.

“We grieve the passing of our founder but our loss motivates us to continue the legacy and values that he left. We commit to continue to uphold honesty, integrity and professionalism in the public service, for which Gov. Marañon was admired. We shall aim to achieve his vision of a better and progressive Province of Negros Occidental. Padayon!” Ferrer added.

Based on information provided by doctors to McConchie, the former governor passed away due to complications associated with his cardiac health.

The former governor’s remains were also brought on Friday at the steps of the provincial capitol building, in order to allow the provincial officials and capitol employees and to pay their respects.

He was buried yesterday afternoon at the family’s mausoleum in Sagay City.

Marañon served as governor of Negros Occidental for three consecutive terms until his retirement following the 2019 national and local elections./DGB, WDJ