Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Monday extended his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of veteran journalist and DZRH News reporter Misael “Boy” Gonzales Jr. who passed away due to stroke.

During the Manila local government’s flag ceremony, Moreno described Gonzales as a close friend and expressed sadness over his passing.

“Mayroon akong isang kaibigan, nalulungkot ako at nakikiramay ako sa kaniyang pamilya. Kaninang umaga ay sumakabilang buhay na. Iyon ay napakamalapit sa Maynila, mahal na mahal nun ang Maynila,” Moreno said.

The Manila mayor also conveyed his sympathies to the Gonzales’ family and DZRH community.

“Sa mga taga-DZRH, nakikiramay ako sa inyo, sa pamilya ni Boy Gonzales,” he added.

In a separate statement, the Manila Public Information Office (PIO) also expressed condolences to the veteran journalist’s loved ones and colleagues.

“Kinikilala ng pamahalaang lungsod ang kanyang serbisyo bilang mahalagang katuwang sa paghahatid ng balita, impormasyon, at importanteng pangyayari sa lungsod, gayundin bilang miyembro ng Manila City Hall Press Club na matagal nang naging bahagi ng news coverage sa kapitolyo ng bansa,” the Manila PIO said.

“Paalam at maraming salamat, Kuya Boy,” it added.

Gonzales was 66 years old when he died at the Manila Medical Center, according to his family in a report by RH Edniel Parrosa.

Arrangements for his wake are currently being finalized.