Former executive secretary Eduardo Ermita passes away

Former executive secretary Eduardo Ermita passed away on Oct. 18, his family confirmed. He was 90.

The family released a statement on Facebook, which was shared on the page of Ermita’s daughter, Balayan Mayor Lisa Ermita.

“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we, the Ermita family, announce the passing of our beloved father, General Eduardo Ramos Ermita (Retired), a dedicated public servant and our guiding light. He passed away peacefully today, October 18, 2025, at 8:00 am, surrounded by his loving family,” they wrote.

“Our father lived a full life in steadfast service to the Filipino people. As a soldier, he served with honor and dedication during some of the nation’s most challenging times,” they continued.

"To us, his family, he was simply 'Papa' or 'Lolo Ed'—our source of wisdom, strength, and unconditional love. The lessons he imparted and the values he lived by are the greatest legacy he leaves behind. He was a true patriarch, not only of our family but also of the entire First District of Batangas, whose welfare remained his foremost concern until the very end."

The family said they take solace knowing his life's work touched countless others, and that his legacy will live on through them and everyone he inspired.

"We extend our deepest gratitude for your prayers and overwhelming expressions of love and support. Thank you, Papa, for all the great things you have done. You may now rest in peace. We love you!"

Details about the interment and funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time.

Ermita, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy, was an exemplary soldier, statesman, and peacemaker during his career in government.

With a deep desire for peace, Ermita created a role for himself in the military as a diplomat and negotiator. This was exemplified by his mission in 1984 to talk peace with commanders of the Moro National Liberation Front in Basilan. His diplomatic efforts led to the landmark 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the eventual 1996 Final Peace Agreement.

Apart from being a peacemaker, Ermita was a three-term congressman for the 1st District of Batangas from 1992 to 2001. He also held significant roles in the Department of National Defense, serving as acting Secretary of National Defense from January to March 2001 following the Second EDSA Revolution, and later being appointed full-time Secretary of National Defense in 2003, under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

A prominent figure in the Lakas–CMD party, he served as the provincial chairman in Batangas and the regional chairman in Calabarzon since 1992.