Former Camarines Sur Rep. Rolando "Nonoy" Andaya Jr.
MANILA – Former Camarines Sur Representative Rolando "Nonoy" Andaya Jr. died on Thursday, his family confirmed. He was 53.
His children, Ranton and Katrina Andaya, confirmed in a Facebook post the former lawmaker's death, without specifying the cause.
"With deep grief and sadness, we announce the untimely death of our father," they said. "We request for your fervent prayers for his eternal repose, and to allow us, his family, to grieve privately our loss."
Andaya previously served as House Majority Floor Leader and head of the powerful House appropriations committee.
He was also the Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management during the term of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Before the 2022 elections, he initially announced his intention to vie for Camarines Sur's first district congressional post, before filing his candidacy for the gubernatorial position in November 2021.
He ran for governor in Camarines Sur during the 2022 elections but lost to Luigi Villafuerte.
Senator Lito Lapid offered condolences to the family of Andaya.
"Maaring nagawa na ng ating kaibigan na si Nonoy ang kanyang misyon kaya buong puso rin ang ating pasasalamat sa kanyang serbisyo sa bayan (Our friend, Nonoy, may have already done his mission that's why we wholeheartedly thank him for his service for the country)," Lapid said in a statement.
Lapid said Andaya could have done more initiatives for the country, describing him as a hardworking public servant.
Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero also sent his condolences and prayers to the children, family, and loved ones of Andaya.
"Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed," Escudero said in his social media post. (with reports from Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA)
