Calinog mayor succumbs to stomach cancer
Calinog Mayor Teodoro "Doroy" Lao succumbed to a lingering illness yesterday (Tuesday) morning at the Iloilo St. Paul's Hospital.
Mayor Lao fought a lengthy battle against stomach cancer, the primary reason why family members had since expressed apprehension on his mayoralty stint.
In a report over Bombo Radyo Iloilo, Dr. Lester Leonida, the mayor's personal physician confirmed the mayor's passing. He is survived by wife, Levy and eight children, mostly based in the United States.
Two of the Lao siblings went on air over Bombo Radyo after hearing on the radio station's webcast the news about their father.
Love and Nene Joy Lao spoke of their father's dedication to serve the people of Calinog. Both also expressed gratitude on the thousands of the mayor's loyalists who offered spiritual help in the duration of his hospital stay.
Viewing will be temporarily at the Lao residence in Mandurriao, Iloilo City as preparations are being finalized to transfer his remains in his hometown Calinog, Iloilo.
As a matter of procedure, the vacancy left by the mayor's demise will be filled by Calinog Vice Mayor Salvador Divinagracia.
Mayor Lao began his political career in 1989 as mayor of Calinog. He was reelected for another two consecutive terms in 1992 and 1995 elections.
Last year, he again ran for mayor and won by a majority vote signaling his return to the government service.
Third District Rep. Arthur Defensor, a long time friend of Lao, described the latter as a good public servant.
"During my time as governor of the province Mayor Lao usually go to my office to follow up projects for his constituents," Defensor said.
"Mayor Lao manifested his sincere and genuine love for public service during his stint as mayor of Calinog," the solon ended.