The House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Faustino “Bodjie” Dy III, expressed deep grief over the untimely passing of former Quirino representative and incumbent Governor Dakila Carlo “Dax” Cua.
At the time of his passing, Cua served as Quirino Governor while heading major local government alliances as president of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) and the United Cities and Local Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC).
During his legislative tenure in the 15th, 16th, and 17th Congresses, Cua made key contributions to national policy, including a term as chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo “Dax” Cua. Hindi lamang isang mahusay at dedikadong lingkod-bayan si Gov. Dax. Bilang kapwa-Ilokano at kasamang nagsisilbi sa Cagayan Valley, nakita ko ang kanyang malasakit sa Quirino at ang kanyang pagsisikap na maiangat ang buhay ng mga pamilyang kanyang pinaglilingkuran,” Speaker Dy said in an official statement.
Dy highlighted Cua’s extensive work in advocating for local governance reform and regional empowerment.
“His service extended far beyond Quirino. Bilang presidente ng Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines, isa siyang matatag na boses ng mga lokal na pamahalaan—isang lider na naniniwala sa kakayahan ng mga LGU na maging tunay na katuwang sa pag-unlad ng ating mga komunidad at ng buong bansa,” the Speaker added.
The House leader extended his personal condolences to Cua’s family, particularly his father, former Quirino Rep. Junie Cua, and his wife, incumbent Quirino Rep. Midy Cua.
“Nakikiramay ako sa buong pamilya Cua, lalo na sa kanyang ama at ating dating kasamahan sa Kamara, former Quirino Rep. Junie Cua, at sa kanyang asawa at kasamahan natin ngayon sa Kapulungan, Quirino Rep. Midy Cua. Walang mga salita ang sapat sa ganitong uri ng pagkawala. Kasama ninyo kami sa pagdadalamhati at sa pagpupugay sa buhay ng isang mabuting anak, asawa, ama, kaibigan, at lingkod-bayan,” Dy stated.
Closing his tribute, the Speaker offered words of sympathy to the constituents of Quirino.
“Nakikiramay rin ako sa buong lalawigan ng Quirino na nawalan ng isang lider na naglaan ng malaking bahagi ng kanyang buhay sa paglilingkod sa kanyang mga kababayan. Agyaman kami, Gov. Dax. Your work is done, but your service will not be forgotten. May you rest in eternal peace,” Dy concluded.