CATARMAN, Northern Samar––Former Northern Samar representative Emil Ong died on Thursday, Sept. 16.
He was 84.
His son, Gov. Edwin Ong, confirmed the former lawmaker’s death through his social media account.
“Our beloved father, Cong. Emil, whose heart and mind are always in Northern Samar, is now in God’s arms at around 1 p.m. today (Thursday). He will always be our guide and will be watching over us,” said the governor.
Ong’s family, however, did not provide any details regarding his death.
Ong was elected congressman representing Northern Samar’s second district from 2007 until 2016, a post now held by his brother, Jose Ong Jr.
He also served as the administrator of the National Food Authority during the administration of President Corazon Aquino and a delegate of the 1970 constitutional convention.
From 1998 until 2001, Ong also served as presidential assistant for Eastern Visayas during the short-lived administration of Joseph Estrada.
He was also the regional chairman of the National Unity Party.
As a sign of respect and mourning, Philippine flags at the provincial and municipal buildings in the province were lowered to half-staff.
Rep. Paul Daza of the first congressional district also expressed his grief over the loss of his political nemesis.
“The province has lost a beloved leader and a dedicated Nortehanon,” he said.
Mayor Don Abalon of San Roque town, a political ally and former president of the Mayors’ League in the province, credited Ong as instrumental for the development of his town and the rest of the second district.
His nephew, Mayor Harris Christopher Ongchuan of Laoang town, also lauded Ong for serving the people.
“Thank you, Uncle Emil, for your love and support. Your kind of leadership and public service will be missed forever and always,” he said.