Negrense historian, author, and journalist Modesto Palacios Sa-onoy died of pneumonia complications at Riverside Medical Center in Bacolod City at 11:13 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10.
He was 88.
Sa-onoy died the day before his wife, Verobina, marked her 80th birthday, their son Aufred Paul, said Friday.
“He was so many things — an author, a journalist, a teacher, a consultant, an army reserve officer, and an active member of so many organizations. But most importantly, he was a father to me and Angel, a father-in-law to Ephie and Stephen, the loving husband of Verobina Abeto Sa-onoy, a grandfather to Alran, Gabrielle, Sam, and Jaez, and a great-grandfather to Ali and Rafa,” his son said.
Sa-onoy was an Ang Banwahanon and Outstanding Negrosanon awardee — two of the highest recognitions that the Bacolod City and Negros Occidental governments bestow upon a citizen for exemplary service and contribution.
Among all the honors he received, he was most proud of his Knighthood in the Equestrian Order of Pope St. Sylvester, one of the oldest and most distinguished Papal Orders, his son said.
Pope Benedict XVI elevated him to the rank of Commander and Great Medal in recognition of his work and service to the Diocese of Bacolod.
Sa-onoy was one of the founders of the Visayan Daily Star. He also founded Today News and Views, which later became SunStar Bacolod.
He also served twice as president of the Negros Press Club and was a leader and member of various other organizations, including the Negros Historical Foundation, which he helped organize.
His wake will be held at Acropolis Gardens – Aisle 4 from 3 p.m. onwards on Saturday, September 12, to Monday, September 14.
The Interment Mass will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at the Bacolod Cathedral, after which he will be laid to rest at the Cathedral Ossuarium Crypt.
“We thank everyone for their prayers, love, and presence as we remember and celebrate the life of our father,” his son said.*
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