FORMER Bacolod City Mayor Oscar “Oca” Verdeflor passed away Monday morning due complications of pneumonia while confined at Dr. Pablo O. Torre Memorial Hospital.

Verdeflor’s nephew, Capitol executive assistant Angel Verdeflor, confirmed that his uncle expired around 10 a.m. after battling a disease for 16 years.

The late mayor, who died at 80 years old, is survived by his wife Barbara and four children, who are all abroad.

Verdeflor, known for his colorful language, was mayor of Bacolod from 1998-2001. He defeated Mayor Evelio Leonardia during the latter’s first reelection bid in 1998.

Verdeflor, however, had to step down from his post in March 2001 after the Commission on Elections declared him ineligible for the position for being an American citizen. He was succeeded by then Vice Mayor Luzviminda Valdez.

The younger Verdeflor said they are thankful for his uncle’s supporters, adding that he is hopeful they will not forget his legacy in Bacolod.

He said the late mayor was pro-poor with the motto “Bring the best for the people of Bacolod.”

The Philippine flag at Bacolod Government Center is being flown at half-staff.

Bacolod City Representative Greg Gasataya said Bacolod had lost a very colorful and frank leader.

“We share his vision and programs for the masses of our beloved city. We condole with the family of Mayor Oca,” Gasataya said.

Councilor Caesar Distrito said Mayor Oca, as he was popularly known was a sui generis, meaning a class of its own.

“He was a unique character, which made him popular to the people. As we can say, if Davao has a Duterte, Bacolod has a Verdeflor. If he was not removed by the Comelec, and did not suffer a massive stroke, for sure he will be one of the longest serving mayors of Bacolod,” he said.

“We are thankful of his service to the people of Bacolod, and for that we extend our condolence to his entire family,” Distrito added.

Verdeflor’s remains will be brought to his residence at Barangay Taculing in Bacolod.