Antique town mourns mayor’s death

FILE / Official Facebook page of Mayor Elmer Cerdeña Untaran

ILOILO CITY – The mayor of San Jose de Buenavista town, the capital of Antique province, passed away on Monday, July 1, at the age of 65.

Mayor Elmer Cerdeña Untaran succumbed to lung cancer while receiving treatment at the Makati Medical Center in Makati City, according to his sister-in-law, Mayor Mary Jean “Bebot” Nicopior-Te of Libertad town, Antique.

A wave of tributes has emerged in honor of Untaran who was in the midst of his third and final term as mayor.

“As a leader, Mayor Elmer is someone we idolize because of his kindness, strong leadership, hands-on approach, closeness to the people, and his clean, honest, and effective governance,” Mayor Te said.

“We have also witnessed his loving, faithful, and responsible nature as a husband to Manang Marichu, a father to Kate and PJ, and a grandfather to his grandchildren,” she added.

Antique Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda also conveyed his condolences to the family of Untaran who he called a “visionary leader who left an indelible mark on our community.”

“We take comfort in knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us all, and we pray that his memory will bring solace and strength to everyone who knew him. His selfless dedication to public service will never be forgotten, and his impact will continue to resonate throughout our community,” he added.

In tribute to Untaran, the Philippine flag was lowered to half-mast at the municipal hall beginning Wednesday, July 3.

The local government of San Jose de Buenavista also held a candle-lighting ceremony to honor his memory.

With Untaran’s passing, Vice Mayor Justin Ercarnacion is set to assume as the chief local executive of the town in accordance with the rule of succession.