The people of E. B. Magalona deeply mourn the passing away of our beloved former Mayor and Board Member, Atty. Reynaldo P. Depasucat, who joined his Creator yesterday [May 1].

It is very sad to hear of Board Member Rey's passing away and even sadder to learn that it happened on the day we were celebrating the highlight of our 34th Ugyonan Festival, but we also take comfort in the thought that Saraviahanon shall remember him more fondly on our fiesta day because he was the one who conceptualized and started our Ugyonan Festival.

Atty. Rey Depasucat had passionately dedicated his time and talent to a life of public service.

He had served the Municipality of E. B. Magalona for more than 20 years: more than 11 years as Mayor and 9 years as Board Member.

He was first appointed as OIC-Mayor of E. B. Magalona from June 1986 to November 1987, after the EDSA People Power Revolution.

He was then elected as Mayor of E. B. Magalona for three terms, or from 1988 to 1998.

He then went on to become Board Member of the Third District for three terms, or from 1998 to 2007.

Mayor and Board Member Rey was instrumental in the growth and development of E. B. Magalona and the Third District and we are forever in gratitude to him for his invaluable contributions to our Municipality and to the Third District.

I have ordered for the Philippine flag in our Municipality to be flown at half-staff on May 2 to 4, in honor of former Mayor Rey Depasucat.

I extend my hearfelt condolences to the Depasucat family for such a big loss. May you find comfort in the thought that Mayor Rey was dearly loved by Saraviahanon because he had touched so many lives.

As my godfather, I thank Maninoy Rey for his love and guidance. His brand of public service has inspired me in trying to make my own contributions to the progress of E. B. Magalona.

May the soul of Mayor Maninoy Rey rest in God's loving embrace and eternal peace.

MAYOR MARVIN M. MALACON