Manila mourns councilor’s death

"He was a good man, loving husband and father and a dedicated public servant. Although he was already ailing, he continued to serve the constituents in his district."

This was the message of Manila Mayor Lito Atienza as he condoled with the family of third district Councilor Hilarion "Larry" Silva, who died at 4 a.m. yesterday at the age of 66 due to a lingering kidney ailment.

Silva, an actor who essayed comedic roles in various movies and television sitcoms and become known to his fans as "Pipoy" before his foray into politics, is survived by his wife Annie, who is running for councilor in the third district, as well as his children Larsil, Larisa, Hilarion II, Hilarion III, Larrie Anne and grandchild Tintin.

Silva also became acting vice mayor in 1998 during the election campaign held that year as Atienza assumed the post of city mayor.

Atienza ordered the Philippine flag at city hall and all city government facilities to be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning for Silva’s passing away.

Silva’s remain are now at the Funeraria Lopez at the corner of Bulacan street and Avenida Rizal.

"I for one grieve over the passing away of a dear friend and a fellow local development advocate. His death not only represents a loss for his loved ones but also for Manileños whom he served faithfully and well," Atienza said.

Necrological services for Silva at the session hall of the City Council will be held on Thursday.