Palawan Rep. Edward Hagedorn passed away Tuesday morning, his chief of staff confirmed to the Daily Tribune. He was 76. Hagedorn’s official Facebook page said the lawmaker “died peacefully” but did not reveal the cause of his demise. However, he had previously disclosed his battle with pancreatic cancer.
“Cong. Ed’s life speaks volumes, particularly his role as a champion for the environment, tourism, agriculture, and peace and order,” the post read. “His efforts created inclusive spaces for the community and inspired a collective desire for change… Above all, Cong. Ed’s life journey has always been fueled by hope and was void of fear.”
Hagedorn’s family had yet to share details of his wake and funeral at press time.
Before his stint in Congress, Hagedorn was the long-time mayor of Puerto Princesa City, serving from 1992 to 2013. He took a brief hiatus in 2001 due to term limits. In 2013, he ran for the Senate but lost.
In 2022, he ran for congressman of Palawan’s third district and won.
The House leadership is “deeply saddened” by the loss of Hagedorn, describing him as a “guiding light and inspiration” to many House members.
“As we remember Cong. Ed, let us not only grieve his passing but also celebrate the inspiration he provided. His legacy calls us to continue his work with the same passion and love he demonstrated every day,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said.
“To have known and worked with Cong. Ed has been an honor and a privilege. His spirit and legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire us all,” he added. “May we find solace in the immense legacy he leaves behind and the countless lives he touched.”
Back in July, Hagedorn was found guilty of malversation of public property by the Sandiganbayan for his failure to turn over government-issued firearms when he was mayor of Puerto Princesa City. Hagedorn maintained he was innocent of the charges.
During that period, he revealed that his doctor had recommended a special diet to address his elevated body mass, especially following knee surgery. With CELESTE ANA FORMOSO