The passing of former Environment Secretary and philantropist Gina Lopez sent a tidal wave of reaction online- both from netizens and people she had worked with.
On Monday, ABS-CBN confirmed Lopez’s death. She was 65 years old.
“While we mourn with Gina’s family and loved ones, we also pray that her legacy continues to live on in the heart of every Kapamilya she had touched in her lifetime,” the network said in a statement.
Lopez was rejected by the Commission on Appointments in 2017 due to her strong stance against mining.
“The Palace deeply grieves the demise of one of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s most passionate Cabinet members whose environmental advocacy and legacy remains unparalleled to this day,” Malacañang said in a a statement.
Senator Risa Hontiveros said that Lopez did everything to fight ‘big polluters’.
“Gina fought with everything she had against big polluters. She’ll always be remembered that way: as a fighter whose legacy will be remembered by many. Salamat, Gina. Rest in peace,” she said.
“No crown nor degree finished about environment, just a pure heart to protect the nature. Si Ms Gina Lopez ang tunay na Miss Earth ng Pilipinas. #RIPGinaLopez,” a netizen wrote.
A netizen remembered Lopez’s unforgettable moment when she sang after her CA rejection.
“Gina Lopez: “I believe I can fly.” Fly with angels, Ms. Gina,” a netizen said.
‘Gina Lopez’ and ‘Rest In Peace’ became an instant trending topic Monday morning.
