Karina David, leading figure in fight vs Marcos, dies

Karina Constantino-David

Karina Constantino-David, a leading figure in the fight against the Marcos dictatorship, died on Tuesday, her family announced on Wed-nesday.

She was 73.

David, wife of Inquirer columnist and sociologist Randy David, served as chair of the Civil Service Commission in the administration of President Benigno Aquino III.

She was also known as the other half of the progressive singing duo Inang Laya, whose music inspired generations of political activists in the country.

Serving the Filipino

“Much of her life was spent serving the Filipino people in her work as professor, activist, community organizer and public servant. She was a patriot in the true sense of the word,” the David family said in a statement.

“As a professional, she was the epitome of discipline, intelligence and integrity; as a wife, mother and grandmother, she was the perfect example of patience, selflessness and unconditional love,” it added.

Sen. Francis Pangilinan, president of the Liberal Party and campaign manager of the opposition coalition Otso Diretso, offered his condolences to the David family.

Otso Diretso slate

Pangilinan praised her for her role in the struggle to end the iron-hand rule of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The senator also recognized David’s contribution in forming the Otso Diretso senatorial team for the May 13 midterm elections.

“We are saddened by her passing … She will be missed, not only by us, but also by a nation grateful for her selfless service,” Pangilinan said.

“She fought to depose Marcos the dictator. She fought to rebuild democracy and good governance after this … A distinguished warrior for a better Philippines,” he added.

David’s family is asking for prayers for her eternal repose in lieu of flowers.

The details of her wake would be announced, the family said.