Rene Espina served in the Cabinet of the Marcos administration.

Former senator and Cebu governor Rene Espina passed away Friday at the age of 89 due to kidney disease complications.

His son, former Cebu City councilor Erik Espina, posted on Facebook a tribute to the “father of the family and a nation”.

“Another light dimmed in the passing of a good man who loved his country. We will miss you dad,” the younger Espina wrote.

Malacañang also expressed its sympathy to the kin, friends, colleagues and supporters of the late Espina, who was credited for the enactment of the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972.

“Senator Espina was credited for having crafted the country’s first anti-drug law, Republic Act No. 6425, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972, the precursor of Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

The Palace also recalled Espina’s long track record of public service, including as secretary of public works, transportation and communication department during the Marcos administration. He was also the youngest administrator of the Social Security System which he served at age 33.

“The Filipino people are indeed grateful for the long track record of public service Senator Espina gave to the nation. May eternal rest grant to this faithful servant of the Lord, may perpetual light shine upon him, and may his soul, through the mercy of God, rest in peace,” Panelo added.

Espina’s wake is being held at Sacred Heart Church in Cebu City.