Ex-Laguna town mayor dies

LAGUNA, Philippines — Former Pagsanjan mayor Girlie Javier-Ejercito died yesterday at the age of 55.

Ejercito’s husband, former Laguna governor ER Ejercito, announced her passing on social media.

ER said his wife, known as Maita Sanchez in the movie industry, died at 12:01 a.m. at the St. Luke’s Medical Center, where she had been confined for endometrial cancer.

Aside from her husband, the former mayor is survived by their children, Eric, Jet, Jerico, Jhulia, Diego and Gabriela.

“Our family is requesting prayers and mass offerings for the repose of her soul. Heartfelt thanks for all your love and prayers,” ER said in his post.

The wake will be held from Nov. 3 to 9 at the family’s residence in Pagsanjan.

ER said his wife was an outstanding local chief executive who brought life, joy and integrity to programs and projects of Pagsanjan, a top tourist destination in Laguna.

She served as town mayor from 2010 to 2019, vice mayor from 2019 to 2022 and president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Laguna chapter.

Pagsanjan Mayor Cesar Areza has condoled with the Ejercitos.