Camarines Sur Rep. Marissa Andaya succumbs to cancer

Rolando said Marissa was a “cancer warrior” for seven years, noting that the disease recurred in June this year. (File Photo: Marissa Andaya/Facebook)

MANILA – Camarines Sur 1st district Rep. Marissa Andaya died on Sunday night (July 5) of cancer, according to a statement from her family. She was 51.

Her husband, former congressman Rolando Andaya Jr., said it was her second bout with cancer.

“The love of my life has passed on into eternal life. Her people lost their leader, our children — their mother, and I — my best friend,” Rolando said in a statement.

Rolando said Marissa was a “cancer warrior” for seven years, noting that the disease recurred in June this year.

Rolando said despite being immunocompromised, Marissa opted to stay in Camarines Sur to help her constituents during the coronavirus pandemic.

“She chose to be with them from Day One of the lockdown, daily doing rounds of her district, helping the sick, the stranded, and those who have lost jobs and livelihood,” he said.

“She reluctantly returned to Manila on the first week of June for her scheduled medical check-up. It was there that we learned that her nemesis has returned with a vengeance. Tonight, surrounded by her loved ones, her beautiful heart gave up,” he added.

Rolando said funeral details would be announced soon as he requested privacy for his family during this difficult time.