SENATORS MOURN PASSING OF SAGUISAG

MANILA, Philippines: Senators, led by Senate President Juan Miguel, joined the nation in mourning the passing of former senator Rene Saguisag.

Zubiri said Saguisag possessed an "unwavering commitment to justice and fairness for every Filipino," which was evident in his initiatives such as the Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG).

He said that although Saguisag's tenure in the Senate was brief, he significantly impacted Filipinos' lives. He co-authored laws, such as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act 6713) and the Ombudsman Act of 1989 (RA 6770), that continue to uphold the highest standards in public service.

Zubiri emphasized that Saguisag was a true statesman who left an indelible mark on Philippine politics. He also believed in providing free legal services to the poor and needy, following the principle that those with less should have more in law.

Saguisag's legacy of service and excellence continues to be a benchmark for many young lawyers and public servants.

Senate President Pro Tempore Lorna Regina "Loren" Legarda expressed that more than a lawmaker, Saguisag served as a "voice of the voiceless, fearlessly speaking up in a time when people were afraid to and defending them with all his might at risk of his own life."

"I also admire him for continually standing up for human rights until his final breath — wanting to make every Filipino viewed the same under the 1987 Constitution," said Legarda.

"In his lone Senate term, he ensured public officials and civil servants would be accountable. He was one of those who vehemently opposed the stay of the US military bases in the country," Legarda stated further.

In a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Sen. Francis "Chiz" Escudero described Saguisag as a "patriot, nationalist, and honest public servant."

"My sincere condolences and prayers to the family and loved ones of former Senator Rene V. Saguisag. He was a patriot, a nationalist, and an honest public servant," Escudero said.

During the martial law years, Escudero recalled that Saguisag was a prominent opposition figure who worked as a human rights lawyer. He played a crucial role as the first spokesman for the late president Corazon C. Aquino following the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Sen. Mary Grace Poe condoles with the nation for the loss of a staunch advocate for good governance and justice.

"A legal luminary, he has devoted his time and brilliance to many, especially the disadvantaged in society," Poe said.

She remembered that in her citizenship battle with the courts, Saguisag stood with them, unconditionally lending his wit and wisdom, and for this," we will forever hold him dear."

Sen. Robinhood "Robin" Padilla extended his deepest sympathies to the "Ka Rene" Saguisag family and loved ones.

"Unbeknownst to everyone, Ka Rene has become my close friend, and I consider him a mentor when he became my lawyer back in the day -- not only in matters of law but in matters of life," said Padilla in a statement.

He said "Ka Rene" was not only brilliant, he was "brilliant." "If he wrote an opinion, you must read it carefully and repeat it to ensure you understand his writing correctly. Thank you very much, Ka Rene, for the wisdom you shared with us.

"We will never forget you," Padilla said.

In 1987, Saguisag was elected to the Senate, where he led the Committee on Ethics and Privilege and the Ad hoc Committee on the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. His term in the Senate ended in 1992.

2024-04-24T05:00:33Z dg43tfdfdgfd