Actress-politician Maita Sanchez, wife of ER Ejercito, dies at 55

Maita Sanchez or Girlie Ejercito. Images: Facebook/Gov. ER Ejercito, Viva Entertainment

Actress-turned-politician Maita Sanchez, also known as Girlie Javier-Ejercito, died after a battle with endometrial cancer, her husband, former Laguna Gov. ER Ejercito said. She was 55 years old.

Ejercito confirmed Sanchez’s death in a statement on Facebook, saying she died at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, November 3. He also thanked his wife’s supporters for their “love and prayers.”

“Heartfelt thanks for all your love and prayers,” he wrote. “Mayor Maita was an outstanding multi-awarded local chief executive (2010-2019) who brought life, joy, and integrity into the significant programs and projects of Pagsanjan, which is now recognized as the tourist capital of Laguna.”

Image: Screengrab from Facebook/Gov. ER Ejercito

Sanchez was mayor of Pagsanjan, Laguna from 2010 to 2019.

Her wake will take place on Sunday, at the Don Porong Ejercito 1912 Ancestral Mansion in Pagsanjan, Laguna. Details on her burial are yet to be announced.

The former actress is survived by her husband and their six children: Eric, Jet, Jerico, Jhulia, Diego, and Gabriela.

Sanchez appeared in several films including “Sa Dulo ng Baril,” “Epifanio Ang Bilas Ko: NB-Eye,” “Katabi Ko’y Mamaw,” “El Presidente,” “Muslim Magnum .357: To Serve and Protect,” and “Shake, Rattle & Roll Extreme.”

She served as the mayor of Pagsanjan, Laguna from 2010 to 2019.