Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez on Monday, Sept. 9, ordered Philippine national flags at all government offices in Bacolod City to be flown at half-mast for five days as a sign of mourning for the passing of former governor Daniel “Bitay” Lacson Jr. on Friday, Sept. 6, at the age of 77.
“Let this act serve as a humble tribute to his lifelong commitment to public service and to the significant contributions he made to our community and the nation at large,” Benitez said in Executive Order No. 148, Series of 2024, which he issued Monday.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson earlier also ordered the flying of the Philippine flag at the Negros Occidental Capitol at half-mast in honor of the former governor.
Daniel Lacson Jr. was governor of Negros Occidental from 1986 to 1992, and also served as chairman of the Philippine National Bank (PNB) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
Republic Act No. 8491, also known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines,” allows for the Philippine National Flag to be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning to honor the passing of distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation, Benitez said in his executive order.
“Former Governor Daniel ‘Bitay’ Lacson Jr. was a dedicated public servant who faithfully served the people of Negros Occidental and the nation. His exemplary leadership, particularly during his tenure as Governor, had a profound impact on the province’s development,” Benitez said in his executive order.
In addition to his service as governor, he held key national leadership positions, notably as chairman of the PNB and GSIS “where he provided outstanding stewardship and was instrumental in the effective management of these institutions, thereby contributing to the financial stability of the country,” Benitez added.
His life and service serves as an inspiration to the younger generation, embodying the values of integrity, leadership, and dedication to public service, the mayor added.
The Negros Occidental provincial government is also honoring Lacson at the Capitol in Bacolod City on Tuesday, Sept. 10.
The following is the schedule of the mass and tribute at the Capitol:
