QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The House of Representatives confirmed the death of Batanes Lone District Representative Ciriaco B. Gato Jr. on Monday, September 21, prompting lawmakers to temporarily pause official proceedings to pay tribute to their deceased colleague.
The legislative body paused its marathon debates on the proposed ₱7.2-trillion 2027 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) to hold a brief period of silence and offer prayers for the late lawmaker.
House Deputy Speaker and Misamis Oriental 2nd District Representative Bambi Emano, who presided over the session, announced the news to the assembly.
”Can we all please rise for a moment of silence and offer a prayer for our beloved colleague, the honorable Ciriaco B. Gato, who passed away earlier today,” Emano said.
Gato, 66, served as the chairperson of the House Committee on Health. A medical doctor by profession, he was an active member of the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC).
In the wake of the announcement, the NPC released a official statement honoring Gato’s career and expressing grief over his death.
”The Nationalist People’s Coalition deeply mourns the passing of Batanes Rep. Ciriaco B. Gato Jr., a valued member of the party, a dedicated public servant, and a physician who devoted his life to caring for others,” the party said.
”His loss is deeply felt by the people of Batanes, his colleagues in Congress, the NPC, and all whose lives he touched,” it adde
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The political party concluded its statement by offering condolences to the lawmaker’s surviving family.
”The NPC extends its deepest sympathies and prayers to his loved ones. His life of service will be remembered with gratitude and respect. May Congressman Gato rest in eternal peace,” the party said.