BAYANI Fernando, the former mayor of Marikina and chief of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), has passed away at the age of 77. His wife, Maria Lourdes, confirmed his passing.
The MMDA expressed deep sorrow and shock at Fernando’s sudden demise. He led the agency from June 5, 2002, to Nov. 25, 2009, and during his tenure, he was known for his scientific and practical approaches to addressing issues in Metro Manila. Under his leadership, the MMDA gained prominence, thanks to initiatives like the creation of rapid bus lanes and the “Metro Gwapo” campaign, which aimed to transform the region into a more attractive and livable metropolis.
In addition to his efforts to clear sidewalks of obstructions, Fernando also initiated some controversial projects, such as the “wet rag” scheme, where MMDA personnel were tasked with throwing wet rags at jaywalkers.
Before his time as MMDA chief, Fernando served as the mayor of Marikina City from 1992 to 2001. He is credited with transforming Marikina, often referred to as the “shoe capital of the Philippines,” from a fourth-class municipality into a model city, earning it 55 citations and distinctions.
In 2003, Fernando served as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) secretary under the Arroyo administration. Although he ran for vice president in 2010, he was not successful in that election.
Subsequently, Fernando became the congressional representative of Marikina from 2016 to 2022. In the last election, Marikina Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro was re-elected after defeating Fernando.
Fernando’s educational background includes a Mechanical Engineering degree from the Mapua Institute of Technology in 1967, with further graduate studies at the same institution in 1983. (ai/mnm)