Pampanga congressman’s wife among dead in Resorts World attack

One of the casualties at the Resorts World Manila attack Friday was the wife of a Pampanga congressman.

The death of Elizabeth Gonzales, wife of Pampanga Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales, was confirmed by House Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, as he relayed to the media the text message sent to him by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

“Text of PNP chief Dela Rosa to me, I asked for his help this noon to locate Mrs. Gonzales: Sir, positive, wife of Rep. Dong Gonzales of Pampanga is Elizabeth Panlilio Gonzales - died in the incident,” Fariñas said. 

“We are still looking for her sister, Consolacion P. Mijares. No report yet,” dela Rosa’s message said.

Elizabeth was one of the 18 guests identified by the management of the hotel-casino as one of the fatalities.

Resorts World Manila said 35 dead bodies were found in the casino area, of which 13 are employees and 22 are guests. The identities of two employees and four guests are still being validated as of 3 p.m.

Resorts World Manila Chief Operating Officer Stephen Reilly said in a press conference that the 35 people died due to smoke inhalation.

The total number of fatalities was 36, including the lone gunman, who died after setting himself on fire. —NB, GMA News