Former PNP chief Cascolan dies

Retired General Camilo Pancratius Pascua Cascolan, former chief of the Philippine National Police and undersecretary of the Department of Health, has died, his son announced on Facebook.

Cascolan passed away at 5:28 p.m. on Friday, November 24, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He was 59.

"My dad dedicated his life to serving and protecting our country as a man of service for 42 years. We will forever remember his unwavering dedication to his duty, his selflessness, and his love for his family," his son, Jiro, said.

"His loss leaves a void that can never be filled, but we find solace in knowing that his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. He will forever remain in our hearts as a shining example of courage, dedication, and love," he added. 

Cascolan served at the helm of the police institution from September 2 to November 10, 2020 during the Duterte Administration.

He was also appointed undersecretary of the Office of the President in February 2021, and then appointed undersecretary of the Department of Health (DOH) in October 2022.

The DOH on Saturday expressed grief at the passing of Cascolan.

"Kasama ang buong Kagawaran ng Kalusugan (DOH) sa pagpapaabot ng pakikiramay sa pagpanaw ni Department of Health - Undersecretary, Camilo Pancratius P. Cascolan. Nawa'y manatili ang masasayang alaala ng isang pinuno, ama at kaibigan sa lahat ng kaniyang nakadaupang palad," it said in a post on Facebook.

(The entire DOH extends its condolences at the passing of Department of Health-Undersecretary Camilo Pancratius P. Cascolan. May the happy memories of a leader, father, and friend be cherished by all those he encountered.)

Further information on Cascolan's wake and funeral has yet to be disclosed. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/LDF/KG, GMA Integrated News