House suspends session to mourn for Cebu City Rep. Del Mar
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives suspended its session on Tuesday to make way for the mourning for the passing of Cebu City Rep. Raul del Mar.
Del Mar passed away on Monday evening. He was 79.
The session only lasted for less than two minutes.
“Session is suspended to mourn the passing away of our distinguished colleague and veteran lawmaker, session will resume tomorrow at 3 p.m.,” Deputy Speaker Conrad Estrella said.
Speaker Lord Allan Velasco earlier expressed his condolences to the family of Del Mar, describing him as “mentor to me and many others,” adding that the latter’s dedication to public service serves as an “inspiration to many.”
READ: Velasco: Late Cebu City Rep. Del Mar would’ve been deputy speaker under my term
Article continues after this advertisement“Representative Del Mar proved his passion and commitment to public service by religiously attending plenary sessions and public hearings of the House of Representatives in order to fulfill his duties and mandate as a lawmaker. He had perfect attendance for the 27 years that he was a lawmaker,” Velasco said in a statement.
Article continues after this advertisement“The dedication of Congressman del Mar to public service is truly remarkable and serves as an inspiration to many. We owe him a debt of gratitude. He will be missed,” he added.
House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez also said he is “deeply saddened” by the passing of Del Mar, whom he described as his “good friend.”
