It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that I join the people of Leyte and the entire Tingog community in mourning the passing of former Leyte Governor Edgar Mercado Enerlan – a man whose life was defined by service, humility and unshakable dedication to his fellow Warays.
More than a leader, Gov. Enerlan was a pillar of strength and wisdom who helped lay the foundation for what Tingog Party-List stands for today. As one of its founding fathers, he played an instrumental role in shaping a movement rooted in compassion, unity and a firm resolve to uplift the voiceless.
His vision was always clear: that the people of Eastern Visayas deserve a voice that echoes in the halls of national policymaking.
Ang pagkawala ni Gov. Enerlan ay isang napakalaking dagok hindi lamang sa kanyang pamilya at mahal sa buhay kundi sa buong lalawigan ng Leyte. Isa siyang tunay na lingkod-bayan: mapagkumbaba, matapat at may pusong nakatuon sa kapakanan ng bawat Waray.
Sa mga panahong puno ng hamon at pag-asa, palagi siyang nariyan. Nagmamasid, gumagabay at hindi kailanman bumitiw sa kanyang paninindigan.
His leadership principles, marked by quiet resolve and people-first governance, will continue to guide us as we push forward with our shared dream of a just and inclusive Philippines. His name will always be spoken with reverence in the story of Leyte’s progress and Tingog’s continuing advocacy.
As Speaker of the House and a son of Leyte, I stand with his loved ones and the many communities he touched. We grieve together, we remember together, and we commit to keeping his legacy alive through our continued service.
On behalf of the House of Representatives, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Gov. Enerlan. May they find comfort in the knowledge that his life was one of purpose, and that he leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
Rest well, Mano Edgar. You have run your race with honor. We will carry on the torch you have passed.
