📷 Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman
It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I mourn the passing of my dear colleague and friend, Representative Edcel Lagman. His untimely departure is a great loss not only to his family and constituents but also to the nation, as we have lost a tireless advocate for justice, human rights, and meaningful legislative reforms.
Representative 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 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 (EJKs) 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.
He was also a staunch defender of Lumad schools, which came under attack and were forcibly closed during the Duterte administration. His advocacy for the rights of indigenous communities and their access to education will forever be remembered.
Representative Lagman was a true pro-people legislator, working hand-in-hand with Bayan Muna and the Makabayan bloc to push for legislative reforms aimed at creating a more just and equitable society. His efforts were always guided by a deep desire to alleviate the systemic hardships and inequalities faced by the majority of our people.
On a personal note, as a Bayan Muna legislator, I am deeply privileged to have had the opportunity to work alongside Representative Lagman. 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. His novel legal theories and strategic approaches in court challenges were a testament to his brilliance and commitment to the rule of law and justice.
Representative Edcel Lagman’s legacy as a legislator, advocate, and defender of human rights will continue to inspire us all. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, but his life’s work will remain a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of principled leadership. My deepest condolences go to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Rest in power, Ka Edcel. Your fight lives on in all of us.#
