House mourns passing of Rep. Lagman
Credit to Author: Jose Rodel Clapano| Date: Sun, 2 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0800
MANILA, Philippines — Both the majority and minority bloc in the House of Representatives mourned the passing of Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, whom House Speaker Martin Romualdez described as a “fearless, passionate and sharp” lawmaker that has served Congress for several decades.
Romualdez said all of the lawmakers has witnessed Lagman’s dedication in his work and his tireless advocacy for human rights, good governance and social justice.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel C. Lagman. He was more than a colleague – he was a passionate and fearless legislator whose presence in the House of Representatives commanded respect,” Romualdez said.
“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,” he added.
Makabayan bloc party-lists Reps. France Castro (ACT Teachers), Arlene Brosas (Gabriela Women’s Party) and Raoul Manuel (Kabataan) also expressed their deepest sympathies to Lagman’s family.
“The passing of Rep. Lagman is a profound loss not only to Congress but to the entire nation. His legacy as a fearless advocate for human rights, democracy and social justice will forever be etched in our country’s history. As a close friend and ally of the Makabayan bloc, he stood with us in countless battles for people’s rights and welfare,” they said.
Manila 6th district Rep. Bienvenido M. Abante Jr., chairman of the House committee on human rights, said Lagman served the people for decades and was an indefatigable advocate for human rights and tireless champion of the country’s marginalized sectors like the urban poor, labor and women.
“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,” Abante said.
Manila 3rd Rep. Joel Chua, chairman of the House committee on good government and public accountability, said Lagman’s mastery of law and parliamentary procedure was truly awe-inspiring.
“I deeply mourn the passing of Cong. Edcel Lagman, one of the sharpest and most brilliant minds in Congress,” Chua said.
For her part, OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino said the people should emulate Lagman’s character as a lawmaker.
“His integrity and principles in Congress served as an inspiration to many public servants,” Magsino said.
Meanwhile, former Bayan Muna Rep. Carlos Isagani Zarate said Lagman’s passing left a profound sadness and a heavy heart.
“Rep. Lagman was a steadfast ally and a principled leader who dedicated his life to fighting for the marginalized and oppressed. During the 17th and 18th Congresses, I had the privilege of working closely with him as my co-principal author in shepherding the passage of the Human Rights Defenders Bill in the House of Representatives. His unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of human rights defenders was instrumental in advancing this critical legislation,” he added.
Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Adiong said Congress is in mourning due to “the passing of a great man, our colleague, our mentor and our beloved fraternity brother, Congressman Edcel Lagman.”
“His departure leaves a void that cannot easily be filled, not only in the halls of Congress but in the hearts of those who had the honor of working alongside him, learning from him and calling him a friend and a brother,” Adiong said.
Aside from lawmakers, former Vice President Leni Robredo also expressed words of remembrance for Lagman.
“My fondness for him was very personal. When I was vice president, I sought him for political advice. His wisdom, borne from his years as an outstanding public servant, always helped me gain clarity,” Robredo, who also hails from Bicol, said. — Janvic Mateo