CEBU, Philippines - The Rama clan has lost a "great protector and defender" with the passing of Basak-San Nicolas Barangay Captain George Rama.
These were the words of Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama a day after George's death Monday due to severe pneumonia.
"We lost our dearest protector, defender, relative and friend. We (the) Rama(s) are emotional and very close with each other. Politics runs in our blood but ties are more important for us. He's a very valuable family member," the mayor said.
George, a former councilor of Cebu City, turned 66 a day before he was hospitalized. His body now lies at the Rama Compound in Barangay Basak-San Nicolas.
For several years, George suffered from lymphoma cancer but was later cured though chemotherapy.
The mayor said George was the "bravest Rama who will fight to death to defend and protect his family."
The mayor said George's death saddened him a lot because he was his one-of-a-kind confidante, particularly on political affairs.
"He was always there supporting my political views and decision. We talk without holding back because wa siya'y kahadlok even if he has only one arm. He was also very witty making everyone happy," the mayor said.
The mayor said George was the epitome of a true public servant, having been awarded for his advocacy in peace and order.
George's only son, Paul Edward, 15, said he misses his dad's tough voice and advices.
"I missed his kasaba and his voice. He was very vocal and sometimes strong yet he was a very soft-hearted and a caring dad. When he gets mad, he never fails giving lessons about life," Paul Edward said.
Paul said his dad was a very family-oriented man and would always find ways to spend time with them even when he was busiest.
"He's a good man and a good father. He taught me to cherish our family above all things and that he will always be remembered," Paul said.
The Philippine flag at the Sugbo grounds in front of the Cebu City Hall is flying at half-mast since yesterday in honor of the "courageous" barangay captain.
George's remains will be brought to City Hall within the week for city government workers and the public to be given the chance to view his remains. He will be buried next week, either Monday or Tuesday at the Cebu Memorial Park Cemetery in Banilad, Cebu City. – (FREEMAN)