Negros Oriental governor dies of liver cancer

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – Negros Oriental Gov. Emilio Macias II yesterday succumbed to liver cancer. He was 76.

Provincial board member Erwin Macias said his father died at 3 a.m. at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute in Quezon City while he was being prepared for his next chemotherapy session this week.

Macias, who was re-elected governor in the May 10 elections, was airlifted to Manila last month, days before his proclamation by the provincial board of canvassers, due to his illness.

His body will be cremated in Manila and the family hopes to bring his remains to Dumaguete City today, the young Macias said.

The governor, a doctor by profession, started his political career as provincial board member in 1977, served as governor for three terms before representing the second district in the 11th, 12th and 13th Congress. He again ran and won as governor in 2007 and was recently re-elected.

He was known for his efforts in improving healthcare delivery in the province and promoting organic farming. He also initiated efforts for a one-island, one-region for Negros Oriental and Occidental.

He is survived by his doctor-wife Melba Lopez and five children – doctors Emilio III, Lamberto II and Mark, board member Erwin, and only daughter Eleanor.

Second district Rep. George Arnaiz expressed sadness over the news, saying the governor had hoped to be back to Negros Oriental by June 30 in time for their oath taking and inauguration.