Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo Cua Dies at 48

Quirino Governor Dakila Carlo “Dax” E. Cua passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 15. He was 48. The provincial government has yet to release details regarding the cause of his death, with further statements expected from his family and official representatives. Mr. Cua’s unexpected passing triggered an outpouring of grief across the province, where he had long been a major figure in local administration and governance. Born on Nov. 4, 1977, Mr. Cua began his political career at a young age, serving as vice-governor from 2001 to 2007 before completing his first term as governor from 2007 to 2010. He returned to the helm of the provincial capitol in 2019, serving continuously until his death. Prior to his second gubernatorial stint, Mr. Cua represented the lone congressional district of Quirino in the House of Representatives from 2010 to 2019, where he steered major national economic and education measures as principal author of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion law and Republic Act No. 10230, which established Quirino State University. He also co-authored the Rice Tariffication Law and the Ease of Doing Business Act. Mr. Cua, the eldest son of former governor Junie E. Cua and Maria Angela Enriquez-Cua, is survived by his wife, incumbent Quirino Rep. Midy N. Cua, and their three children. Municipal halls and public offices across Quirino have lowered their flags to half-staff as the province honors his lifetime of public service. — Artemio A. Dumlao