A ROAD in Manila has been renamed to Mel Lopez Boulevard in honor of the accomplishments, contributions, and “exceptional” public service of Gemiliano “Mel” C. Lopez, Jr. as a sportsman, public servant, and socio-civic leader, especially to the people of Manila. President Rodrigo R. Duterte signed on April 12 the law, Republic Act No. 11280, that changes the name of the portion of Radial Road 10 traversing Bonifacio Drive at Anda Circle up to Marala Bridge at the foot of Estero de Marala. The law was authored by Reps. Jose Atienza Jr. (Party-list, BUHAY) and Raul Daza (1st District, Northern Samar), according to a statement from the Press and Public Affairs Bureau of the House of Representatives released on May 18. “He (Mr. lopez) served our nation proudly and well as a city councilor, as acting vice mayor, as an assemblyman in the regular Batasan Pambansa, as mayor of the City of Manila, as Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, and at his demise on January 2017, as Chairman and CEO of the Philippine National Oil Company — Exploration Corporation,” Mr. Daza was quoted as saying. For his part, Mr. Atienza said: “His service to the country — particularly to the people of the City of Manila — is an important reminder to those in public service today that self-interest simply has no room both in the elective and civil service.” — Arjay L. Balinbin

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