ILOILO — The sudden death of Dueñas town’s Vice Mayor Aimee Paz Lamasan has sent shockwaves across Iloilo Province, drawing an outpouring of grief and tributes from local officials who described her as a public servant defined by compassion, integrity, and public service.
The Lamasan family formally announced her passing on New Year’s Day, confirming that the second-term vice mayor died on December 31 while undergoing medical treatment.
“The official cause of death will be released as soon as supporting documents are available,” the family said in a statement.
Authorities earlier confirmed that Lamasan was rushed to Iloilo St. Paul’s Hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound to the right portion of her abdomen in what was initially reported as an accidental discharge involving her licensed .9mm pistol. She reportedly failed to survive a second surgical procedure.
The hospital management alerted the Iloilo City Police Office at around 7:30 a.m. on December 30, 2025 after Lamasan was brought in by her partner and a bodyguard.
Beyond the circumstances surrounding her death, tributes focused on Lamasan’s record in public office and her personal ties within the local government community.
“Hon. Lamasan was a distinguished public servant whose heart was dedicated to serving her fellow Dueñasanon… Her leadership with heart and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Dueñasanon left a meaningful impact on the community,” the family added, as they appealed for prayers and expressed gratitude to those who extended assistance and condolences.
The League of Municipalities of the Philippines said the loss was deeply felt across local governments in the province.
“We join the community in mourning this great loss and in honoring a life spent in service to others. May she rest in eternal peace,” the group said through its Iloilo chapter, led by the Municipality of Badiangan’s Mayor Suzette Mamon.
Fourth District’s Cong. Ferjenel Biron echoed the sentiment, calling Lamasan “mapisan kag masaligan” — a leader of integrity and genuine service — whose legacy would endure in the community she served.
Dueñas’s Mayor Robert Pama, Lamasan’s long-time political partner, issued an emotional message, describing her as his closest ally in public service and a constant presence through challenges and victories.
The Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines likewise mourned the loss of one of its officers, with chapter president Vice Mayor Arvin Losaria of Lambunao calling Lamasan “one of the great pillars of our league.”
San Enrique’s Vice Mayor Rosario Mediatrix Fernandez described Lamasan as both a colleague and a close friend, while Philippine Councilors League president JP Peñol said her death at the start of the New Year left “a profound void” in Dueñas.
“Manang Aimee was more than a dedicated public servant; she was a beacon of faith and integrity who served her people with unwavering grace,” Peñol said, noting that her legacy would continue to inspire long after her passing./PN
