CITY Legal Officer lawyer Edgar Gil, a former Iloilo City councilor and one of the city’s longest-serving legal officers, died at the age of 91, officials confirmed on Thursday, July 3, 2025.
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, who appointed Gil at the beginning of her administration, described Gil’s recent confirmation by the City Council on Wednesday as a proud moment that underscored his enduring commitment to public service.
“I was excited to work with him and his brilliance,” the mayor said. “His passing is not just a personal loss to me but a great loss to the City of Iloilo. We have lost one of our finest public servants.”
“Lawyer Gil was not just a legal officer; he was a pillar of strength, a trusted adviser, and a man whose integrity inspired many,” she added.
She acknowledged Gil’s unwavering service to Iloilo City, from being a councilor to serving as city legal officer during the terms of her father, former Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas, and once again under her current leadership.
“His wisdom, humility, and sincerity in public service left a lasting mark on the city and the people who worked with him,” she said.
Former mayor Treñas also paid tribute, recounting his long professional and personal relationship with Gil.
“I first came to know Edgar as one of the leaders who supported my father during the Con-Con elections. Since then, I was privileged to witness his brilliance and integrity — first as our floor leader in the City Council, and later on as my city legal officer during my first term as mayor in 2001 up to 2010, and again from 2019 until the end of my final term in 2025,” he said.
The former mayor remembered Gil not just as a trusted colleague but as a beloved friend.
“He was more than a colleague. I loved him as a friend, a steadfast ally, and my most loyal lawyer,” he said. “His passing is a great loss not only to those who knew and worked with him but to the City of Iloilo, which he served with dignity and dedication.”
Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne “Jam-Jam” Baronda also expressed her condolences to the family.
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of lawyer Edgar Gil, former Iloilo City councilor and chief legal officer of the Iloilo City Government. To the Gil family, I extend my deepest condolences. May you find strength in knowing that his life’s work continues to inspire, and that his memory lives on in the hearts of those he served with compassion and wisdom. Rest in peace, Atty. Thank you for your service,” she said.
Gil was reappointed as city legal officer by Mayor Treñas on July 2, 2025 and confirmed by the Iloilo City Council.
Gil, a respected legal mind and public servant, has left a significant legacy in Iloilo City, having served in various public capacities for decades. His contributions to city governance, particularly in upholding the legal foundations of local administration, are recognized by generations of leaders, staff, and citizens. (Leo Solinap)