The Executive Branch declared today, Wednesday 26 September, a national day of mourning for the death of ambassador Roberto Blandino, who served as the head of ceremonies and protocol at the Presidential Palace for more than 40 years. Blandino, as he was known, was the "eminence grise" at the government headquarters, known for always making sure that everyone was in the right place at the right time. He served under every President from Joaquin Balaguer to Leonel Fernandez. His recent declining health had kept him from performing similar duties for President Danilo Medina.

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