IBA, Zambales — Zambales Board Member Reynaldo C. Tarongoy passed away on November 12 after a bout with cancer. He was 73.

A veteran lawyer who served with the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) before entering politics, Tarongoy is remembered as a humble, dedicated, and respected public servant who provided counsel for the poor, acting as their defender to get equal access to justice.

From his PAO days, Tarongoy went on to serve as a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan after his election as Board Member in 2004. He successively won a total of six terms in the Sanggunian, serving until his demise on November 12.

In a necrological service held to honor BM Tarongoy’s memory, members of the Sanggunian led by Vice Gov. Jacqueline Khonghun recalled fond memories of his kindness, integrity, and accomplishments as a legislator.

Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., meanwhile, described him as “an exemplary public servant, and a good friend and fellow Zambaleño.”

Former Board Member Renato Collado, who once served with Tarongoy, called him “a true gentleman and an honest public servant.” Collado said that with the passing of Tarongoy, “the provincial board and the province lost a legal mind that drafted meaningful legislation.” 