Statesman, human rights defender Edcel Lagman dies

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One of the most respected figures in the legislative, Lagman leaves behind a legacy of pushing for progressive measures in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – Albay 1st District Representative Edcel Lagman, among the longest-serving lawmakers in Congress post-EDSA revolution, passed away on Thursday, January 30.

He was 82.

His family confimed the veteran legislator’s passing in a statement.

“He left this world the way he lived his life — with integrity, compassion, and fearlessness. He fought until the end with the dogged determination, tenacity, and unshakable hopefulness that defined all that he stood for,” Tabaco City Mayor Kristel Lagman said.

Lagman first served as district representative in 1987 and served three terms until 1998. He again served from 2004 to 2013, then 2016 until his day of passing.

One of the most respected figures in the legislative, Lagman leaves behind a legacy of pushing for progressive measures in the Philippines.

He was the brains behind the reproductive health law and is a major advocate of bills on gender equality, divorce, and human rights.

Until his death, he was the president of the Liberal Party and was among the most prominent figures of the opposition. – Rappler.com