NPC members mourn passing of pillar Danding Cojuangco

Members of the Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC) on Wednesday extended condolences to the loved ones of political party founder Eduardo "Danding" Cojuangco Jr. who passed away at the age of 85.

Cojuangco was chairman emeritus of NPC. He also served as a governor of Tarlac and a former ambassador.

He ran for president in the 1992 elections but lost to Fidel V. Ramos.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III, acting chairman of the NPC, said his whole family is mourning the loss of a "mentor and beloved friend."

"He lived an extraordinary life, a successful man who wore many hats as he made waves in the business sector and splashes in public service. The vast ocean of entrepreneurship and political leadership will never drift as suavely and smoothly without his engaging presence," Sotto said in a statement.

"The legacy and vision of NPC’s big boss will continue with all its members, friends and especially, among his family," he added.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian remembered how Cojuangco guided him during his early years in politics.

"I have been with the NPC since the start of my political career and I witnessed how he has shaped, over decades, the ideals and objectives of the party that centered on love for country. He treated us like family and I will remain GRATEFUL for his support," Gatchalian said in a statement.

The senator also looked back at Cojuangco's passion for sports, especially in basketball during the 1980s.

"My heart and my thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time," he added.

Earlier in the day, Gatchalian expressed his condolences to the family of Cojuangco.

Senator Lito Lapid said Cojuangco, whom he highly admires in the fields of public service and business, helped him build his political career.

"Isang malaking utang na loob din ang aking tinatanaw kay Boss Danding dahil miyembro ako ng NPC nang una akong tumakbo bilang Vice Governor ng Pampanga noong taong 1992. Si Boss Danding kasama ng buong pwersa ng NPC ang tumulong sa akin para maipanalo ang unang sabak ko noon sa pulitika. Isang bagay na hindi ko kailanman malilimutan," Lapid said.

"Sa aking muling pagsabak sa pulitika at sa laban para bumalik sa Senado, si Boss Danding ang naging malaking pwersa sa aking pagkapanalo kasama ng lahat ng aking kapartido sa NPC at mga kababayan nating nagtiwala sa akin," he added.

Lapid said Cojuangco will remain an inspiration in the hearts of the people whose lives he has touched.

Former senator JV Ejercito also expressed his grief over Cojuangco's demise.

"Woke up to a very sad news earlier. My Ninong Danding Cojuangco passed away. He is a very nice person with a kind heart. Super nice to me. He will be missed," he said in a tweet.

Sorsogon Governor Chiz Escudero, a former member of the NPC, likewise sympathized with those who are mourning the passing of the tycoon.

"My sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of Boss Danding... My prayers go out to ECJ and to all of you during this time of sorrow," Escudero said.

San Miguel Corporation announced Wednesday morning the demise of Cojuangco.

"San Miguel Corporation announces the passing of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eduardo M. Cojuangco Jr., on the evening of June 16, 2020," SMC said in the statement. —AOL/KG, GMA News