Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar expressed condolences over the passing of Arlene de Castro, wife of former Vice President and broadcaster Noli de Castro.

“We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to People’s Television Network Inc. (PTNI) General Manager Katherine Chloe de Castro and her family, friends, and loved ones on the passing of her mother Arlene de Castro,” Andanar said in a statement.

Katherine “Kat” de Castro announced the death of her 66-year-old mother in a Facebook post on July 30, 2021.

“Having worked for different Philippine broadcast media such as the Maharlika Broadcasting System and ABS-CBN, Arlene de Castro has cemented her legacy as a tough boss but a generous leader, as her former colleagues have recalled,” Andanar said.

Andanar said he is hoping that Arlene’s legacy in the media industry and public service would inspire the next generation of broadcasters, journalists, and media workers “to have courage, bravery, and empathy to undertake their passion for the media industry.”

“Our prayers are with the de Castro family, their friends, and loved ones in this time of grief,” he said.