MALACAÑANG on Friday, May 10, extended its sympathies and condolences to the family of the late Mindanao Development (MinDa) Authority secretary Datu Abul Khayr Dangcal Alonto.
Alonto, 73, passed away on Thursday, May 9, due to complications from a heart problem.
In a statement, Panelo noted that Alonto devoted his professional career in "contributing to the socioeconomic transformation of Mindanao from a land of promise to a land of fulfillment."
"The Palace expresses its deep sympathies and condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the late Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Dangcal Alonto," the Palace official said.
"We are going to miss his amiable and smiling presence. We pray Allah grant him eternal repose of his soul," he added.
Panelo recalled that Alonto served the government in various capacities before being part of President Rodrigo Duterte's Cabinet.
Alonto served as vice mayor of Marawi City in 1972 and later became acting mayor of Marawi City in 1974.
He was also elected as an assemblyman in 1979 and sat as the interim head of the Regional Autonomous Government.
Alonto was the first Muslim chairperson and secretary of MinDA.
Panelo said the nation would remember Alonto for dedicating his life to public service to pursue peace and development in Mindanao.
"The nation is grateful for his services and we are confident that his legacy would continue to inspire leaders, government workers, and people to advance the cause of peace and development in Mindanao," he added. (Ruth Abbey Gita/SunStar Philippines)