Cebu (CNN Philippines, July 19) — Former Cebu Gov. Emilio “Lito” Osmeña has died at the age 83, a family member confirmed Monday.
In a text message, his son Mariano “Mimo” Osmeña said his father died at around 6 p.m., adding that a statement from the family will be issued soon.
No immediate details were provided as to the cause of death of the former governor.
Cebu City Councilor Renato “Junjun” Osmeña, Jr. also announced his uncle’s death through a Facebook post.
“Rest in peace, Uncle Lito Osmeña. Salamat kaayo sa tanang gitudlo nimo kanako dili lang kabahin sa pulitika kundi apil pud sa kinabuhi [Thank you for all the wisdom you taught me not just in politics but in life in general],” the councilor said.
Osmeña was the governor of Cebu from 1988 to 1992.
He was credited with launching “Ceboom,” which referred to the rapid economic development in the province in the early 1990s after it was devastated by super typhoon Ruping.
Osmeña ran for president under the Probinsya Muna Development Initiative, or PROMDI, which pushed for some form of federalism in government. He lost to former President Fidel Ramos.
His brother former Senator Sonny Osmeña also died this year.
