Northern Samar mourns political ‘titan’ Raul Daza, 91

TACLOBAN CITY — Northern Samar mourned the death of Raul Daza, a political titan who served the province as governor and congressman for decades, with local leaders honoring his legacy of public service, democratic principles, and contributions to the province’s development.

Daza, 91, died on Monday, Oct. 12, after a lingering illness, his family announced on Thursday. His passing marked the end of a political career spanning more than five decades and left a legacy that continues through his grandson, Rep. Nikko Raul Daza, who now represents Northern Samar’s first congressional district.

Northern Samar Gov. Christopher Harris Ongchuan paid tribute to the former provincial leader, saying his contributions would remain in the hearts of Northern Samar people, known locally as Nortehanons.

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READ: Ex-Northern Samar solon Raul Daza passes away, family confirms“You will forever be cherished and remembered,” Ongchuan said in his message to Daza, expressing hope for the former governor and congressman’s eternal rest.

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Northern Samar Rep. Edwin Ongchuan also honored Daza for his contributions to good governance, education, healthcare, and community development, saying his leadership would continue to inspire future generations of public servants.

Catarman Mayor Dianne Rosales also described Daza as a “true titan of public service,” recognizing his decades of leadership as the province’s political patriarch.

In a statement, the Catarman municipal government said Daza’s steadfast defense of democracy and leadership as governor and representative helped reshape infrastructure, strengthen public institutions, and lay the groundwork for the province’s continuing progress.

Other local government officials in Northern Samar likewise expressed their condolences and paid tribute to the former provincial leader.

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Former senator and now party-list representative Leila de Lima also mourned Daza’s passing, describing him as a pillar of democracy and a fatherly figure who supported her throughout her public service career, including during her detention.

De Lima said Daza repeatedly visited her while she was detained, regularly checked on her, sent her books and letters, and offered advice and encouragement during one of the most difficult periods of her life.

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READ: Raul A. Daza, forever a Liberal

She praised his integrity, compassion, and courage, saying he remained committed to serving the Filipino people throughout his long career.

Daza’s son, Paul Daza, said in a family statement that his father devoted more than five decades to public service as a lawyer, certified public accountant, legislator, governor and political leader.

He served seven terms in the House of Representatives between 1969 and 2019, including as Speaker Pro Tempore and Senior Deputy Speaker. He also served three terms as governor of Northern Samar from 2001 to 2010.

Daza also served as deputy minister of the Presidential Commission on Good Government and commissioner of the Presidential Commission on Constitutional Reforms.

A distinguished lawyer and CPA, Daza graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines College of Law and ranked 11th in the Philippine Bar examinations. His family said he was believed to be the first Philippine-educated professional to pass both the California Bar and CPA examinations.

A longtime Liberal Party stalwart, Daza joined the party in 1965 and served as its president from 1994 to 1998. He later chaired the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats.

His political career spanned the martial law years and a period of political exile. His family described him as a steadfast defender of democracy, justice, and the rule of law who remained firm in his convictions despite political challenges.

“As Governor and Representative of Northern Samar, he helped establish the blueprint for the province’s development, guided by his belief that a province long burdened by poverty could rise to a future of dignity, opportunity, and prosperity,” his son said.

Daza’s remains will be brought to his residence in Daganas, Catarman, from Oct. 21 to 22, before being transferred to the Northern Samar provincial Capitol Gymnatorium in Catarman, where they will lie in state from Oct. 22 to 24.

A funeral Mass is scheduled at 1 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the Our Lady of Annunciation Cathedral in Catarman. A necrological service at the House of Representatives in Quezon City is scheduled for Oct. 19.

Daza is survived by his wife, Teresita S. Ruiz; their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

READ: Dy hails late ex-solon Raul Daza: He stood firm for democracy

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In their statement, his family remembered him as a man who genuinely put himself in others’ shoes, adding that his life and principles would continue to guide and inspire future generations./coa