The late Lapu-Lapu City councilor Damian Gomez Jr. is escorted by policemen on his way to his final resting place. (CDN PHOTO/NORMAN MENDOZA)
Lapu-Lapu City’s veteran legislator Damian “Damgo” Gomez Jr. was finally brought yesterday to his final resting place by his family, relatives and city officials and employees.
After a Novena Mass at the City Hall lobby yesterday morning, a convoy of vehicles escorted the remains of the late 66-year-old councilor to the Our Lady of Sacred Heart Parish in Barangay Marigondon for the necrological service.
Later at 3 p.m., his remains were brought to Cebu-Mactan Memorial Gardens just across the church for the burial.
The late councilor is survived by his wife Susan, 66, two sons, two daughters and six grandchildren.
Gomez passed away last March 2 at 7 a.m. at the Perpetual Succour Hospital in Cebu City.
According to his nephew Ruben, Gomez had been in and out of the hospital for the past months due to kidney infection, high blood pressure and other complications.
His wake was held at St. Peter’s Chapel in Mandaue City starting Friday last week and was later transferred to the Lapu-Lapu City Hall lobby last Wednesday for the Novena Masses and public viewing.
His sister described the late councilor as industrious, helpful and kind.
She was impressed after reading more than a hundred messages in Facebook from people who condoled them over the passing of Gomez and who expressed gratitude for the help the councilor had extended.
Gomez worked as Human Resource head of Timex Philippines in the 1980s before he entered politics in 1988 where he won city councilor despite being an independent candidate.
He served until 2007 and went back to the private sector before running again for city councilor in the May 2016 elections.
Lawyers Pat Acabodillo, Nelson Yap and Rudy Villanobos were some of Gomez’ friends who were given the privilege to express their parting words and life experiences during their college days.
Gomez was then an active crusader, champion of oratorical and public speaking contests.
Acting city Vice Mayor Harry Don Radaza read the excerpts of the minutes of council resolution dated March 6, 2017 expressing their deepest sympathy and condolences to the bereaved family.
The resolution sponsored by Councilor Roque Wagwag further read that Gomez gave an exemplary service to the private sector and public service and served seven terms as public servant.
That Lapu-Lapu City lost brilliant, humble and kind person, a man with a thousand dreams, he will forever be remembered in the heart and minds of the Oponganons for a commendable service.
Mayor Paz Radaza expressed her gratitude to the bereaved family, “Thank you for giving and sharing with us an exemplary man who gave his untiring service to the Oponganons,” she said.