Maita Sanchez, whose real name was Girlie Javier Ejercito, was a well-known figure in both the entertainment and political spheres of the Philippines. Her journey from being a popular actress to becoming a respected politician is an inspiring story of perseverance, resilience, and service.
Maita was born on April 2, 1969, in Pagsanjan, Laguna. She entered the entertainment industry as a young woman and quickly gained recognition for her beauty and acting skills. She appeared in numerous films and television shows during the 1980s and 1990s, earning the moniker "Maita Sanchez" as her stage name.
In the early 2000s, Maita decided to leave the limelight and pursue a career in public service. She ran for the position of mayor of her hometown, Pagsanjan, and won in the 2004 elections. Her tenure as mayor was marked by her commitment to improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Pagsanjan.
Maita's popularity and dedication to her constituents led her to be re-elected as mayor for three consecutive terms. During her time in office, she also served as the president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP).
Her success in local politics paved the way for her to run for a seat in the House of Representatives in 2016. She won the election and represented the 4th district of Laguna in Congress.
Maita was married to former Laguna governor ER Ejercito, and they had three children together. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and she often shared her family moments on social media.
Sadly, Maita passed away on November 3, 2024, at the age of 55, after a battle with endometrial cancer. Her death was a great loss to her family, friends, and the people of Pagsanjan and Laguna.
Maita Sanchez's legacy as a public servant continues to inspire many Filipinos. Her dedication to serving her community, her resilience in the face of challenges, and her commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives will always be remembered and celebrated.