Aksyon Demokratiko chairperson Hermie Aquino dies

Former Tarlac Representative Herminio "Hermie" Aquino died over the weekend, his party, Aksyon Demokratiko, has confirmed.

"It is with deepest sorrow that we inform the public (of) the passing of Aksyon Demokratiko's chairman, former Cong. Hermie Aquino," the Aksyon Demokratiko said in a statement posted on Facebook on Sunday.

The political party described Aquino as an inspiring servant leader, a great man and a true patriot.

"He will be missed in these difficult times in our nation," the party said.

In the statement, the party did not mention the cause of death of Aquino.

Opposition Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan expressed condolences to the family and loved ones of Aquino, who also served as Tarlac vice governor.

"Itinuturing siya na mahalagang haligi ng pulitika sa bansa bilang pinuno ng partidong Aksyon Demokratiko," he said.

(He is deemed as a political icon being the chairman of Aksyon Demokratiko.)

"Dalangin ko na mabigyan ng lakas ng loob ang kanyang pamilya, pamilya sa Aksyon, at mga mahal sa buhay sa gitna ng pagluluksa at pighati," he added.

(I am praying that his family and the entire Aksyon Demokratiko will be given strength amid this difficult time.)

Aquino, a Filipino businessman, was the half-brother of Benigno Aquino Sr.

He ran for vice president in the 2004 elections as the running mate of former senator Raul Roco. —Anna Felicia Bajo/KG, GMA News