Senators mourn passing of MMDA chairman Danilo Lim

Senators expressed their condolences to the loved ones of Metro Manila Development Authority chairman Danilo Lim, who passed away on Wednesday after contracting COVID-19.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, also a COVID-19 survivor, remembered Lim as a distinguished soldier and a dedicated public official.

"It's sad to hear that one of our hardworking, no frills public servants had passed away from cardiac arrest due to COVID complications," he said in a statement.

"He served his country well both in protecting our people from external and internal threats as well as a low key hardworking bureaucrat in government serving the needs of the people of Metro Manila," he added.

Senator Risa Hontiveros also described Lim as a brave soldier who was admired for his great love of country.

"His energy and life-long dedication is an inspiration to all officers & civil servants," she said on Twitter.

"I was fortunate enough to have fought beside Gen. Danny in many battles in Philippine politics," she added.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said Lim was able to lead the MMDA with "wisdom and foresight."

"His contributions in implementing COVID-19 related policies and rules cannot be disregarded... Chairman Lim’s passing is a great loss to public service," he said in a statement.

Senator Francis Tolentino, also a former MMDA chairman, said Lim was a competent administrator who led with core principles.

Senator Sonny Angara, another lawmaker who survived COVID-19, posted a throwback photo with the deceased MMDA chairman.

He said the public should not be complacent. 

"The threat of COVID is still very real guys, let’s keep our guard up for the next months please," Angara said.

Rest in peace WB MMDA Chairman Danny Lim ???????? the threat of Covid is still very real guys, let’s keep our guard up for the next months pls ???????? ???? pic.twitter.com/BvfXlC0rQW

— Sonny Angara (@sonnyangara) January 6, 2021

Lim, a retired military officer, passed away at the age of 65 on Wednesday morning. Last week, he confirmed that he was infected with COVID-19 and that his symptoms were mild.

He was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to the MMDA in May 2017.

Lim also served as deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Customs during the presidency of Benigno Aquino III. — BM, GMA News