TACLOBAN CITY – Northern Samar province is mourning the passing of former 2nd District representative Emil Ong on Thursday, September 16.
Hours after the announcement of his death by Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan, key officials and groups in the province expressed sadness on social media.
“Our Beloved Father, Cong(ressman) Emil whose heart and mind is always in Northern Samar, is now in God's arms at around 1 p.m. today. He will always be our guide and will be watching over us,” Ongchuan said in a Facebook post late Thursday.
Northern Samar 1st District Rep. Paul Daza said Ong’s death means losing a “beloved leader” and dedicated resident of the province.
“To the family of Mano Emil, I offer my deepest condolences. My family and I are with you in this difficult time,” Daza said.
Samar 1st District Rep. Edgar Mary Sarmiento said he was deeply saddened and shocked to hear the sudden demise of Ong, whom he considered as his father and mentor when he was just starting in the House of Representatives.
"Cong. Emil Ong gave his utmost dedication and commitment to public service when he served as 2nd (D)istrict Representative of Northern Samar. To the bereaved family, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences. May his soul rest in peace," Sarmiento added.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) - Northern Samar Chapter also mourned the passing of Ong, one of their valued members who served as chapter president from 2001 to 2003 and later as governor of the IBP-Eastern Visayas.
“Your leadership has been inspirational, and your time here has been a true gift,” the group stated.
Flags have been flown at half-mast at the second legislative district of Northern Samar.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office also joined the province in mourning the passing of the former local official.
“Mano Emil, as he is fondly called, lived an exemplary life of service devoted to the service of the people of Northern Samar. As a public servant, he pioneered projects and programs aimed at uplifting the lives of the people of the district he represents,” the office said.
Ong, a native of Laoang town, was a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2016.
In the 1980s, he headed the National Food Authority.
He was 84 years old but the cause of death was not announced.