Former Pangasinan governor passes away

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Former Pangasinan governor Victor Agbayani, who had dedicated his life to public service for 30 years as congressman and governor of this province, passed away last Thursday afternoon due to old age.

Agbayani, 83, known for his battlecry "The Possible Dream" anchored on improving the quality of life of Pangasinenses, was born on Dec. 16, 1919.

He first served as congressman of Pangasinan’s first district from 1957 to 1971. Then he ran and won as governor in 1971, holding the post until November 1986.

He was replaced by an officer-in-charge, and won another term in 1995. He was the lone Pangasinan governor who had served the longest time.

Agbayani also authored a book titled "Authority in Mercantile Law," which is still being used in law schools in the country.

Lawyer Virgilio Solis, provincial administrator who had served Agbayani when the latter was still a congressman, told The STAR in a phone interview that Agbayani suffered a stroke and died at the family’s La Vista residence in Quezon City.

His body now lies in state at the Dela Estrada Chapel along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City.

Vice Gov. Oscar Lambino, the acting governor, said Pangasinan lost a great man with Agbayani’s death, but added that "his legacy will live on."

Agbayani’s remains will be transferred to the provincial capitol here prior to his interment in Quezon City, the details of which his family will announce later.

Agbayani is survived by his wife, Teresita Elizaga Agbayani, and their children Marla, Louie (mayor of Sual town this province), Victor Jr. (the incumbent governor), Pia, Roberto, Joey and singer Victoria. — With Cesar Ramirez