Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella passed away early Friday morning, as confirmed by his son Jaypee Labella. The late official was 70 years old.
"It is deep with sadness for the family of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Colina Labella to share the news of his passing," said his son in a media conference.
"After struggling with illness these past months, the mayor has passed away today at 4am," he added.
According to Labella, the late mayor was confined in the hospital for 23 days before passing away due to septic shock secondary to pneumonia.
Over the past months, the mayor was brought to the hospital four times for different reasons. Early this month, he was confined to a private hospital due to pneumonia.
A wake will be held for the public, according to Jaypee, but it will be limited because of existing health protocols. More details will be released once everything's been finalized.
Acting Cebu Mayor Michael Rama mourned the passing of what he called his "partner and dear friend."
"Today, I have lost a good friend and partner, and the City of Cebu has lost a great public servant," he said.
"On behalf of the Cebu City Government & the Rama family, we offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to Joy Labella & the whole Colina - Labella family," he added.
"Let us pause for a moment of silence today and offer our prayers for Mayor Labella’s eternal rest. Rest In Peace, Edgar. You will be missed."
