The principled, reliable Edcel Lagman: Reactions to the passing of rights stalwart

Below are some of the statements issued by his colleagues in the wake of his passing.

Former senator Francis Pangilinan, president of Liberal Party:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Ka Edcel Lagman — oragon in our shared struggle for social justice in the Philippines from the time of the anti-dictatorship struggle in the ’80s until his presidency of the Liberal Party at the time of his death.

“Ka Edcel’s personal and political life had been a testament to the power of principled leadership and the enduring fight for the rights of every Filipino, especially the last, the least, and the lost. The sacrifices of his family, particularly of his brothers labor leaders Hermon and Popoy’s, remind us of the heavy price paid by his own loved ones and those who dare to fight in our nation’s struggles for a Philippines that Filipinos deserve.” [READ: Requiem for a generation]

Former senator Leila de Lima:

“Manong Edcel will be remembered as one of the nation’s most respected leaders and statesmen, tirelessly working for integrity in politics and competence in governance. In his death, he will continue to serve his country as the exemplary model of a humble and selfless servant of the Filipino people, which he dearly loved and faithfully served. My heart goes out to his children and loved ones he left behind.”

Makabayan bloc lawmakers France Castro, Arlene Brosas, and Raoul Manuel:

“As a close friend and ally of the Makabayan bloc, he stood with us in countless battles for people’s rights and welfare.

“His principled stance against charter change, his authorship of the Anti-Enforced Disappearance Act and the Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Bill, and his steadfast defense of press freedom and civil liberties showcase his dedication to protecting democratic institutions and human rights.”

Former Bayan Muna congressman Carlos Zarate:

“He was also a close and reliable ally in our collective struggle against the Duterte administration’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao, the bloody war on drugs, and the extrajudicial killings that plagued our nation. Together, we stood firm in opposing the anti-terror law, both on the floor of Congress and in the halls of the Supreme Court, defending civil liberties and the rule of law against measures that threatened to undermine them.

“His mastery of House rules, parliamentary tactics, and sharp legal insights were invaluable in our shared battles for pro-people reforms. I learned so much from his expertise and his unwavering dedication to the cause of justice.”

House human rights committee chair Benny Abante:

“While we may not have always stood on the same side of every issue, I always had deep respect for his convictions, his intellect, and his desire to serve our people. He was a true public servant — one who fought relentlessly until his last breath for what he believed would uplift the lives of Filipinos.

“Representative Lagman was a man of principle, a formidable and articulate debater whose passion for his many causes was matched by his preparation.”

House ways and means committee chair and Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda:

“It was an honor to serve Albay alongside Congressman Edcel Lagman. He was always formidable. Condolences to the family, and may he rest in peace.”

House Deputy Minority Leader Bernadette Herrera:

“He was also a formidable force in budget scrutiny and deliberation, ensuring that public funds were allocated efficiently and in the best interest of the Filipino people. His sharp eye for details and unyielding commitment to fiscal responsibility made him a trusted guardian of the national budget.”

House Speaker Martin Romualdez:

“Cong. Edcel was known for his sharp intellect, unwavering principles, and deep commitment to the causes he believed in. Whether one agreed with him or not, no one could deny his dedication to his work and his tireless advocacy for human rights, good governance and social justice. His voice — always firm, always eloquent — pushed important debates forward and challenged us all to think more critically and act more decisively.

“His absence leaves a great void, not just in Congress but in Philippine public service. On behalf of the House of Representatives, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues in the Liberal Party. May they find comfort in knowing that Cong. Edcel’s legacy of service and integrity will endure.” – Rappler.com