Then Bohol Gov.Erico Aumentado tries his hands and feet, at raffia loomweaving during the Guiness bid launching in 2009 with prodding from (left to right) Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera, Inabangay Mayor Jose Jono Jumamoy and Provincial Administrator Tomas Abapo Jr. FOTO/RAYMUND BUSLON/FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives on Wednesday mourned the passing of one of its members, Bohol Representative Erico Aumentado.
In a statement sent to reporters, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said he remembered Aumentado as an exemplary public servant whom he said “deserved full credit for transforming Bohol into one of the most progressive, peaceful and richest provinces today.”
Aumentado died of pneumonia at St. Luke’s Medical Center-Global City at 8:37 p.m. on Christmas Day. He was 72.
The House of Representatives will hold necrological services for the late Bohol legislator on Thursday.
Aumentado, a member of the minority bloc, represented the second district of Bohol and served as the chairman of the House committee on ethics and privileges.
“Throughout all his four terms as congressman, three terms as governor, as well as his earlier stints as vice governor and member of the provincial board, Eric’s integrity and honor have never been in doubt. He died a poor man because he never made politics the source of his livelihood,” Belmonte said.
“He was truly an outstanding solon — learned, dedicated, and principled. A gifted writer and newspaperman, Eric pursued his crusading spirit in politics, faithful to his oath and to the highest standards of public service,” he added.
Eastern Samar Representative Ben Evardone meanwhile saw Aumentado’s passing as a loss not only for Bohol but also for the entire country. He remembered that back when they were still serving as governors, Aumentado “was very passionate about democracy, rule of law and protection of the interests of the less fortunate sector.”
“He was a dedicated and very sincere public servant,” he said.