Eduardo Ermita, a former executive secretary under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at his home in Batangas at 89, his family confirmed.
Last Updated on 3 weeks ago by Vijay Kumar
Retired General Eduardo Ermita, a decorated soldier and former executive secretary under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at his home in Batangas. He was 89.
His family announced his death on Facebook and wrote, “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.”
According to a statement released by his family, Ermita died peacefully on October 18, 2025 at 8 a.m., surrounded by his loved ones.
“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,” the family said.
“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.”
Born in Balayan, Batangas, on July 13, 1935, Ermita graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (Class of 1957) and began a long and distinguished career in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Over the years, he held various key positions in the military, ultimately rising to become Deputy Chief of Staff of the AFP.
A veteran of the Vietnam War, Ermita served as part of the Philippine Civic Action Group–1, gaining firsthand experience in international peacekeeping. His leadership extended beyond the battlefield — he later became instrumental in national peace efforts and governance.
In the aftermath of the 1986 People Power Revolution, Ermita transitioned to public service. He represented Batangas’s First District in Congress from 1992 to 2001, and later joined the Arroyo administration, where he served first as Secretary of National Defense and then as Executive Secretary, one of the most powerful positions in the Philippine Cabinet.
In his 2017 memoir, Ermita reflected on his humble beginnings in Balayan and Nasugbu, Batangas, his wartime childhood, and his decades of public service — from military operations in Mindanao to his role during the nation’s most pivotal political transitions.
To his family and friends, Ermita was fondly known as “Papa” or “Lolo Ed,” remembered for his quiet strength, humility, and unwavering devotion to family and country.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines paid tribute to the late general in a statement issued Saturday afternoon:
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines mourns the passing of Gen. Eduardo R. Ermita (ret.), a distinguished soldier, statesman, and leader who dedicated his life to the service of the nation,” the AFP said.
“His career was marked by professionalism and excellence in command. As a former deputy chief of staff, defense secretary, and executive secretary, he embodied the ideals of honor, service, and patriotism — guiding generations of soldiers with wisdom and integrity.”
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the Ermita family during this time of grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory remain a blessing and a source of pride to his loved ones and the entire Armed Forces,” the statement added.
Ermita is survived by his wife and children.
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