MANILA, Philippines — The Senate adopted on Tuesday a resolution honoring the late Senator Heherson “Sonny” Alvarez by conducting a blood donation drive on his birth and death anniversary.
Alvarez succumbed to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) last April 20.
Twenty-one senators adopted Senate Resolution No. 390 during a “hybrid” session. Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senators Francis Tolentino and Sherwin Gatchalian are physically present in the plenary hall.
Meanwhile, 18 senators are participating through a teleconference.
According to the resolution, Alvarez’ daughter, Herxila, has asked the chamber to conduct a blood donation drive which will be conducted on Alvarez’ birth and death anniversary on October 26 and April 20, respectively, in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC).
Senator Richard Gordon, chair of the PRC, sponsored the said resolution.
The Senate has also earlier adopted a resolution commending and honoring Alvarez for his exemplary work as a legislator, statesman, human rights and environmental advocate.
Alvarez was a staunch supporter of former president Corazon Aquino, and was a fierce critic of the Marcos regime.
He ran as a senator when Mrs. Aquino ran as president against Marcos.
Alvarez also previously served as a congressman for Isabela province. He also headed the Department of Agrarian Reform and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources simultaneously. He also became vice chair of the Climate Change Commission during the term of former President Noynoy Aquino before retiring from public service.