Dy honors Rep. Ciriaco Gato Jr. for his legacy of service

MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III led the House of Representatives on Friday in honoring the late Batanes Rep. Ciriaco “Jun” B. Gato Jr.

“For three consecutive Congresses, the people of Batanes entrusted him with the privilege of representing them,” Dy said in his eulogy during the necrological service for Gato at the House.

Gato’s years as a physician, Dy went on, shaped the way he approached his responsibilities as a legislator, particularly on issues involving public health.

Article continues after this advertisement

“As a doctor, he was used to listening to his patients. Before giving a diagnosis, he learned about how they were feeling. Before giving a cure, he would understand the cause of their ailment,” Dy said in Filipino.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

READ: Batanes Rep. Ciriaco Gato Jr. dies at 66

“And maybe, that’s what Congressman Jun brought to Congress — in every hearing, in every proposed law, in very discussion about health, in every decision that could affect the life of a Filipino,” he added.

Dy noted some of Gato’s achievements:

• As chairperson of the House Committee on Health, Gato used his medical experience to advance reforms in hospital infrastructure, maternal and child health, emergency response, blood services, and patient safety.
• He also authored and supported measures, including the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines Act and the expansion of the bed capacity of the Caraga Regional Hospital.

According to Dy, although he only came to know Gato personally during the 20th Congress, they had an opportunity to discuss some of the country’s pressing healthcare concerns, including PhilHealth, zero balance billing, and Gato’s proposal to establish a specialized center for the healthcare needs of senior citizens.

Article continues after this advertisement

“What left a mark on me was: Even when he was a doctor, he would look at these issues based on the situation of the patient — especially of patients who are poor and find it hard to get adequate health care,” Dy said.

“So when we talked about zero balance billing, I saw that it was not a simple policy matter for him. We have the same dream that the day will come when health care for every Filipino family will be accessible and affordable,” he added

Article continues after this advertisement

Dy vowed that the House would continue the healthcare reforms Gato championed, including the proposed Dr. Eva Macaraeg-Macapagal National Center for Geriatric Health and Research Institute, which would provide specialized healthcare for senior citizens.

“Congressman Jun, though I’ve known you only for a short time, I cannot forget our conversation then. Thank you for the trust that you gave me,” Dy said.

“And now that you’re no longer with us, I want to say to you: Our conversation will not end there. We will continue what you were fighting for — better health care for every Filipino,” he added.

Dy also thanked Gato’s family for sharing him with Batanes, Congress, and the Filipino people throughout his years of public service.

“That too was your family’s sacrifice for our country. And we will not forget that,” he said.

READ: Batanes Rep. Gato brought a caring doc’s views to House

The speaker said the House would remember Gato not only for the measures he helped enact but for a lifetime built around caring for others—from his patients in Batanes to the Filipinos ultimately served by his work in Congress.

“In the House resolution we formed, we recognize Congressman Jun as a beloved son of Batanes — a doctor, a lawmaker, and a public servant who dedicated his life to the good of his countrymen. He was someone who chose to serve,” Dy said.

“So on this day, we’re not only saying goodbye. We are giving our thanks. For the years he gave. For the people he served. For the lives he touched. And for the example he leaves behind,” he added.

Dy closed his tribute with a commitment that the House would carry forward the work Gato left behind.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

“Rest now, Congressman Jun. You have served Batanes. You have served this House. You have served your country well,” Dy said. /atm