Philippines: Bayani Fernando, Manila ex-chief, passes away at 77
His legacy stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to ubran transformation
Manila: Former Marikina Mayor Bayani Fernando, credited for his unwavering commitment to discipline and known as the visionary chairman of Metro Manila, passed away at the age of 77.
His family and friends confirmed his demise on Friday (September 22).
Fernando, an engineer, served three terms as mayor of Marikina City from 1992 to 2001. He is known to do hands-on work, including sweeping the streets with his staff. He's also a construction magnate.
When he assumed the role of Marikina's mayor, Fernando oversaw its transformation from a municipality into a modern city.
A man of few words
Known by his initials BF, he was a man of few words, but a dedicated workaholic. Fernando is recognised for applying scientific and practical approaches to address the challenges of a big city.
His exceptional performance, driven by a passion for orderliness, earned him the chairmanship of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), made up of 16 constituent cities and one municipality, from June 5, 2002, until November 25, 2009.
News of BF's death
The news of Bayani Fernando's passing reverberated across the nation, prompting expressions of grief and remembrance from citizens, celebrities, and fellow politicians alike.
His profound contributions, particularly to Marikina City and Metro Manila, were celebrated and acknowledged. The MMDA, in a heartfelt message, hailed him as a "visionary leader" whose legacy in the development of Metro Manila remains invaluable.
Marikina 2nd District Rep. Stella Quimbo offered her heartfelt condolences to Bayani Fernando's grieving family and the entire Marikina community.
She acknowledged him as the visionary behind Marikina's modern era, stating in Filipino, "Our deepest condolences to the Fernando family and the entire Marikina community. Your legacy will forever endure in our beloved Marikina. Thank you, BF, the father of Modern Marikina, for your dedicated service.”
The exact cause of his death has not been immediately known.
Who was Bayani Fernando?
Bayani Fernando (also BF) was a versatile individual who transcended traditional roles, serving not only as a politician but also as an engineer. His tenure as Mayor of Marikina City for nine years was marked by a relentless commitment to the city's transformation, turning it from a former municipality into a thriving urban hub.
For those familiar with Manila, BF's distinctive mark was impossible to miss: the vibrant pink hues that adorned bus stops, sidewalks, and overpasses, a visual signature of his leadership. As chairman of MMDA, his primary focus was to improve transportation and infrastructure.
His untimely departure has left an irreplaceable void, not only within his immediate circle but also in the lives of the countless individuals he touched through his dedicated service.