Tribute to a Bicolano Leader

This writer extends his condolences to the bereaved family of the late Rolando Andaya, Jr. on his untimely demise last June 30, 2022, and would like to pay tribute to his life of service as a Bicolano leader.

Andaya was a lawyer by profession, and his political career spanned 21 years from 1998-2019. It will be recalled that he was the Representative of the First District of Camarines Sur for three terms from 1998-2006, and was a member then of the so-called “Spice Boys”, who were young legislators critical of the Estrada administration. He was among those who signed the impeachment complaint against President Estrada. After Estrada’s ouster he was then appointed by Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to serve as Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management, a post he held that was marred by controversies. When he resigned in 2010 he ran for Congress and won again, this time becoming Deputy House Speaker in 2016 until he was elected House Majority Leader in 2018. He served until the end of his term in 2019.

These recent years in his political and personal life wrought many challenges for Andaya. He lost his wife to cancer in July 2020. He also lost in his gubernatorial bids, which was riddled with reports of two assasination attempts.

Behind this Bicolano political figure was a man with a big heart. Those who knew him well respected and admired him for his magnanimity and generosity in helping those in need. He may have gone through tough challenges that inevitably come with being a politician, but in his heart of hearts, he remained a Bicolano who wanted to give his life in service.

I extend my deepest sympathies to his son Ranton and his daughter Katrina for their loss.

TRIVIA:

Felicitations to Fr. Glenn Ruiz on the occasion of his Sacerdotal Anniversary. Fr. Ruiz was the spiritual director of the Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree, Mons. Jorge Barlin Assembly.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall”. -Nelson Mandela

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has for you.” -Psalm 57:2