Roco’s death mourned in Toronto

Roco’s death mourned in Toronto

By Romeo Ayson Zetazate

Filipinos throughout Toronto and other parts of the province of Ontario mourned the death of former Senator and Education Secretary Raul S. Roco who has been known for his idealism, hardwork, and honesty.

Last Saturday and Sunday August 6 and 7), memorial masses were offered by Filipinos for and on his behalf.

During the memorial mass, the late former Senator Roco was mentioned in all masses in the 5:00 p.m., Saturday; and Sundays, 8:00 a.m.; 9:00 a.m.; 10:30 a.m ; 12:00 noon; 5:00 p.m.; and 9:00 p.m. The mass was officiated by Fr. Anthony Anh.

On the memorial mass also Sunday, Agust 7, Fr. Jose Peña, parish priest of Brampton and a native of the province of Catanduanes, officiated in the 2:30 p.m. mass held at the social hall of 240 Wellesley East. At 4:00 p.m. Fr. Ariel Dimaranan presided over the San Lorenzo Ruiz parishioners in offering songs, praises and prayers to former Senator Roco.

In the eulogy portion, journalist Ricky Caluen sent his own which was read by fellow journalist Jojo Taduran saying that in 1992 when the late Senator Roco was the guest of honor of the Boholanos convention in Iligan City he has already seen in him (Roco) his future aspiration for the highest elective position in the Philippines. Caluen said Mr. Roco had already exhibited a seriousness of purpose, speaking of government that was truly attuned to the needs of the country and of political leaders whose personal interests are subordinated to that of the national good. He added that if fate had been on the side of Senator Roco, he would have proven to be the most enlightened president.

Leon J. aureus, Jr., a fellow Atenean from Naga City, spoke on the public and private life of former Senator Roco which can serve as model for the young Filipinos because of his idealism, principles, hardwork, and honesty.

Willie Nabus, president of Silayan Community Center, said that the death of former Senator Roco is not only a big loss to his family but more so to theFilipino people and the country.

(PRESS RELEASE)