MANILA -- The country is grateful for the service of the late Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Datu Abul Khayr Alonto, Malacañang said Friday.
"Secretary Alonto devoted his professional career in contributing to the socioeconomic transformation of Mindanao from a land of promise to a land of fulfillment. 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," Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Panelo extended the Palace's sympathies and condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of Alonto.
"We are going to miss his amiable and smiling presence. We pray Allah grant him eternal repose of his soul," he said.
Alonto was appointed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in September 2016, becoming the first Muslim chairman and secretary of MinDA, bringing timely representation of the Bangsamoro to the overall socioeconomic development of Mindanao.
He served the government in various capacities before he became a member of Duterte's cabinet. He was elected as vice mayor of Marawi City in 1972 and became acting mayor of Marawi City in 1974. He was likewise elected as an assemblyman in 1979 and sat as the interim head of the Regional Autonomous Government.
Alonto passed away at 10 p.m. Thursday due to lung and heart complications. He was 74.
His remains will be flown back to his hometown in Lanao del Sur on Friday. (PNA)
