Today, we lost a good friend and veteran journalist with the passing of Melo Acuña. A reporter through and through, he continued his work of delivering news while already confined at the Quezon City General Hospital. He was a media man until his very last breath.

As one of the pillars of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), Melo played a pivotal role in the growth of Philippine journalism with his extensive experience throughout his career as an accredited broadcast journalist.

He was someone who was frank and straightforward, never one to shy away from asking questions that needed to be asked. He was a dedicated journalist and a committed partner in disseminating truthful information to the public.

Melo will be remembered for his informative platter shows, which have let us connect with different key information sources on important issues. We will also remember him for his participation in our programs in the PCOO, such as the Laging Handa and the Virtual Presser, among others.

As someone who has devoted his life to journalism, Melo will be truly missed, especially by those whose lives he has touched and those he has served through his love for his profession. We will keep our memories of him close to our hearts.

We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family, loved ones, friends, and colleagues of Melo Acuña for his passing. We pray for the eternal repose of his soul.

SEC. MARTIN M. ANDANAR

Manila, 27 August 2021