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Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo “Dax” Cua, a former lawmaker, has passed away, the House of Representatives announced Wednesday. House of Representatives/Facebook
MANILA — Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo “Dax” Cua, a former lawmaker, has passed away, the House of Representatives announced Wednesday. He was 48.
'We remember Governor Dax for his years of dedicated public service and his commitment to the people of Quirino and to strengthening local governance in the Philippines and across the Asia-Pacific region," the HOR Facebook page said.
Cua's family has yet to issue a statement.
The United Cities and Local Governments Asia-Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), which Cua headed, also paid tribute to the late public official.
“Since assuming the presidency of UCLG ASPAC in 2023, Governor Cua has been a steadfast leader and a passionate advocate for local governments. He consistently championed and embodied our shared belief that The Future is Local,'" it said.
“As we bid farewell to a remarkable leader, we also celebrate a life of service and leadership. We believe that his legacy will continue to guide and inspire our work, and that his contributions will live on through the efforts of local governments across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond,” the organization added.
Sen. JV Ejercito, who served alongside Cua in the House of Representatives' 15th Congress, expressed his sadness over losing a "very good friend."
"One of the nicest, gentlest and most unassuming public official. Rest In Peace Dax," he said.
Cua served as a leader in Quirino for more than two decades.
He first entered politics in 2001 and was elected vice governor at the age of 23.
He served as governor from 2007 to 2010, represented Quirino Province in the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2019, and returned as governor in 2019, serving until his death on September 15.
The cause of the governor’s death remains unknown as of this time.
He is survived by his three children and his wife, Congressman Midy Cua.
More details to follow.