Palawan lawmaker Salvame, 76

MANILA, Philippines —  Palawan first district Rep. Edgardo Salvame has died. He was 76.

A statement posted by his family on Facebook said Salvame died early yesterday, but did not mention the cause of his death.

“Manong Egay lived a life of purpose and adventures,” the post read, saying the congressman made sure that the programs he promised to his constituents had been started during his short stint in Congress.

The post said Salvame’s family is still discussing the details of his wake and burial.

Speaker Martin Romualdez said Salvame’s death is a ”personal loss for me and a huge loss for our community and the nation.”

“Cong. Egay was far more than just a fellow lawmaker. He was a true advocate for Palawan, a devoted public servant whose compassion and dedication resonated deeply with those he represented,” Romualdez said.

“His departure creates a significant gap in Congress, but even more so, it leaves a profound sense of loss within us,” he added.

Last year, another legislative district in Palawan was left vacant with the death of its representative, third district congressman Edward Hagedorn, who also served as mayor of Puerto Princesa City.