Late Aurora governor honored posthumously

QUEZON CITY — The late Governor Reynante A. Tolentino of Aurora was posthumously recognized for his tireless efforts in promoting peace and stability in the province. The award was conferred by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) during a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on 4 December.

Receiving the honor on his behalf was his daughter, Mae Ann Tolentino-Mendoza, who expressed gratitude for the recognition of her father’s dedication to long-lasting peace and initiatives that gave insurgents a chance to reintegrate into society.

Tolentino, who passed away in September 2025 at the age of 74, served as Aurora’s 9th governor from February 2024 until his death. During his brief tenure, he prioritized the province’s peace and security, believing it was essential for sustainable development, tourism and investments.

Under his leadership, Aurora was officially declared a province under stable internal peace and security on 13 March 2024. This declaration followed confirmation from the Department of the Interior and Local Government that 15 villages in two municipalities were cleared of communist insurgency influence.

Throughout his administration, Tolentino led regular joint meetings of the Provincial Peace and Order Council, Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council and Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to coordinate and sustain development and peacebuilding efforts.

He was also instrumental in launching a Peace and Development Center in collaboration with OPAPRU, further cementing his legacy as a leader committed to fostering harmony and opportunities for reintegration.

Tolentino’s dedication had already been recognized during the NTF-ELCAC awards in December 2024, highlighting Aurora’s progress in peace initiatives under his leadership.

His passing left a mark on the province, but his focus on service, unity, and lasting peace continues to inspire government agencies and the people of Aurora alike.