Tarlac lawmaker Cojuangco, 58

MANILA, Philippines — Rep. Charlie Cojuangco of the first district of Tarlac died yesterday after being in life support for several months. He was 58 years old.

Cojuangco, son of the late business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr., reportedly succumbed to aneurysm.

He was seeking reelection in the upcoming May 9 general elections.

The Cojuangco family confirmed his death.

“It is with a heavy heart that we regret to inform you that my husband – Claudia and Jaime’s father – Charlie Cojuangco, has passed away,” journalist China Jocson said in a post on Facebook.

Cojuangco and Jocson got married in October last year.

“We feel at peace knowing that he can rest now. We would like to memorialize him by celebrating his wonderful life at the Heritage Memorial Park from Feb. 23 to Feb. 25 at 9 a.m. to midnight,” the family announced.

Malacañang expressed grief over the passing of the lawmaker.

Cojuangco’s remains will be brought to Tarlac on Feb. 26 for public viewing.

He was head of the House committee on flagship programs and projects, and served as vice chairman of the appropriations committee.

Cojuangco authored 19 measures and co-authored 17 other pieces of legislation in the current 18th Congress.

He first served as congressman of the fourth district of Negros Occidental during the 11th, 12th and 13th Congresses, when he and his family were residing in the Visayas.

He was elected Tarlac congressman during the 17th Congress, which he served until his death.