PNOC president, ex-Coast Guard commandant Reuben Lista passes away

Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) president and former Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Reuben Lista passed away on Tuesday, August 31.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely death and sudden passing of Admiral Reuben S. Lista PCG (Ret.), president and chief executive officer of the Philippine National Oil Company,” the Department of Energy (DOE) said in a statement.

PNOC is a state-run firm under the DOE.

“The Department of Energy extends its heartfelt condolences to the entire Lista family - may you find strength, comfort, and peace in the love of our Lord Jesus Christ,” the Energy Department said.

"Admiral Lista was our staunch partner in realizing our energy goals to effectively implement President Rodrigo Duterte's vision of ushering in a comfortable and secure future for the Filipino people," it said.

In a separate statement, the PCG expressed its sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Lista.

The Coast Guard said Lista will always be remembered for his leadership of the Philippine maritime industry, “particularly for his dedicated public service in the PCG where he rose through the ranks.”

“He led major PCG units, including the Marine Environmental Protection Command and several Coast Guard Districts in different regions across the country. He served as the Deputy Commandant for Administration before being appointed as the 16th Commandant of the PCG from 2001 to 2003,” the PCG said.

Later on, Lista joined the Philippine National Oil Corporation (PNOC) as Chairman and CEO.

LISTA was part of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) Class of 1969 and considered as one of the most decorated PMMA graduates to serve the Philippine Navy (PN) and the PCG, the Coast Guard said. — Ted Cordero/RSJ, GMA News