PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) -- Former Mayor of Puerto Princesa City and 3rd congressional district representative Edward Hagedorn passed away on Tuesday at the age of 76.

His family made an official announcement of his passing on his Facebook page, highlighting his roles in the environment, tourism, agriculture, and peace and order.

“Our dear Congressman died peacefully on October 3rd, 2023, after 76 years of shining his light into the world,” the announcement stated.

He made public his battle with cancer in February. Hagedorn would have turned 77 on October 12.

He served as mayor from July 1, 1992, to June 20, 2013. He was elected congressman for the third district of Palawan in the 2022 national and local elections.

“Above all, Cong. Ed's life journey has always been fueled by hope and void of fear. He seizes each day as an opportunity to lend a helping hand to others on their own journey,” it added.

Mayor Lucilo Bayron, in a message through the City Information Office, also recognized the contributions of Hagedorn in Puerto Princesa. Among his legacies are the inclusion of Puerto Princesa as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, the establishment of the City Baywalk, the construction of the City Coliseum, and the new city hall.

He added that the city government also mourns with the family and said that his passing was a great loss to Puerto Princesa.

“Cong. Ed never failed to help in any possible way he could to assist his constituents. The city of Puerto Princesa mourns with his family, his passing was a great loss to the city,” he said.

Hagedorn's service to the city and province was also acknowledged by the provincial government of Palawan.

“Congressman Hagedorn’s commitment and patriotism are reflected in his indefatigable service to the government. His legacy lives on in his family and the generation of Palaweño.” (RPG/PIA Mimaropa - Palawan)