Former Interior Undersecretary Martin Diño succumbs to cancer at the age of 66

Interior Usec. Martin Diño during the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel forum. Noy Morcoso/Inquirer.net

MANILA, Philippines — Martin Diño, a former Interior Undersecretary and father of former Film Development Council of the Philippines chairperson Liza Diño-Seguerra, died at the age of 66 on Tuesday after a battle with stage 4 cancer.

Diño-Seguerra said her father died early in the morning while surrounded by loved ones.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Martin Diño, Former Undersecretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). ‘Bobot’ as he is fondly called, peacefully died at 2:15 am on August 8, 2023, surrounded by his family,” she wrote in a Facebook post.

According to Diño-Seguerra, her father suffered from acute respiratory failure after his battle with cancer.

Diño-Seguerra said her father was a dedicated public servant committed to his responsibilities.

“Former Undersecretary Martin Diño’s legacy extends beyond his distinguished role in government. As the former Chairman of the ‘Violence Against Crime and Corruption’ organization, he epitomized the spirit of advocacy, using his voice to champion the rights of the oppressed and fight against injustice,” said Diño-Seguerra.

Diño-Seguerra said her family’s heart was heavy, but they remain comforted by their loved ones.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered their prayers. His legacy of resilience, compassion, and a deep sense of duty will forever guide us. We shall share details about his funeral arrangements soon,” she said.