George Rama passes away

CEBU, Philipines - Barangay Basak-San Nicolas Captain George Rama, the man behind the success of Cebu’s renowned Lumad Basakanon, passed away yesterday due to pneumonia.

He died around 2 p.m. yesterday two weeks after being confined at the Chong Hua Hospital. He was 67 years old.

His nephew, barangay affairs unit head and former councilor Eduardo Rama Jr., nephew of the deceased, confirmed his uncle’s death. He said the doctor said George’s pneumonia led to sepsis or blood infection.

He said George was rushed to the hospital on January 15 after suffering severe vomiting and abdominal pains.

Shortly before George’s passing, Mayor Michael Rama told the media his cousin was in critical condition.

Over Instagram, actress Ruffa Gutierrez shared her mother Annabelle Rama’s sentiments over the loss of her brother.

“Nawala na ang isa sa pinaka-favorite kong kapatid... si Barangay Chairman George Rama. I know that you have lived a full life. You will be remembered as a good person and a good family man. Today you join our brother, Tony, in heaven.  I love you. May you rest in peace,” Annabelle’s reaction read.

Vice Mayor Edgardo Labella described George’s leadership approach as “no-nonsense and effective” in delivering basic services.

He added that George, a former city councilor, was straightforward and vocal in his political views, yet was soft-hearted and a kind person.

Labella said George had huge contributions to the city, particularly in crafting the measure that institutionalized massive cleanup after the Sinulog revelry.

“He was the first city councilor responsible for the massive cleanup after the Sinulog. Even if he’s no longer around I think his legacy and memory will forever live in the minds and hearts of his constituents and the Cebuanos in gene-ral. He mobilized people to have total clean-up, one thing that will never be forgotten,” he said.

George served as Cebu City Councilor from in 2001 to 2004. In 2004 he was elected as barangay captain of Basak-San Nicolas, home of the Cebu’s renowned Lumad Basakanon contingent.

Barangay councilman Norman Navarro is expected to assume his post. 

George’s remains will lie at Rama’s compound in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, while his relatives will soon announce the date of interment.