CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy today paid tribute to former city mayor Reuben Canoy who died yesterday night in one of the hospitals here. He was 93 years old.
In a press statement, Uy said it pains him to lose Canoy who had been a father figure to Cagay-anons.
“The country has lost a great statesman, a Mindanaoan leader, the inimitable former mayor of Cagayan De Oro, and assemblyman of Misamis Oriental Atty. Reuben Canoy,” Uy’s statement reads in part.
Canoy’s passing was announced by his daughter, Rhona, on her Facebook page Tuesday night. Rhona is a columnist for this paper.
Uy remembered lawyer Reuben who leaves for posterity his famous edict on the importance of people's participation in our democracy ― “Ang lungsod nga nasayod makahatag og kusog sa demokrasya, apan ang lungsod nga mapasagron makapukan sa atong kagawasan.”
The newly assumed mayor Uy added Canoy was known for his steadfast commitment to democracy, especially Mindanao’s ascent to being at par with the rest of the country in terms of development, especially in the light of his contribution to the political life of the country.
He added Canoy was one of the most colorful political leaders in Cagayan de Oro and Mindanao along with the late Senator Aquilino Pimentel and former Governor Homobono Adaza. The three were outspoken critics of the Marcos Martial Law regime.
“His (Canoy) legacy of fighting for democracy will never be erased or eclipsed and will endure for years to come,” said Uy, adding that the latter’s “unselfish public service, commitment, and dedication to lead and generate great changes” in the city.
A graduate of Silliman University, Canoy was also widely known for his longest-running radio commentary “Perspective.”
“I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his family and to all who mourn the passing of a great man,” Uy said.
In his (Canoy) heydays as in his waning years, Uy said lawyer Reuben Canoy’s persona and influence remain ubiquitous and felt among his many listeners.
“He may have gone to the Great Beyond, but his life and works continue to be a beacon of inspiration. Salamat sa imong kinabuhi,” Uy’s statement reads.
He is survived by his children — Rhona, Chet, Cacoi, and Donne. His wife, Solona passed away in 2019.
