Hontiveros

Lagman remembered as human rights advocate

February 1, 2025 Camille P. Balagtas 167 views

DEPUTY Minority Leader Senator Risa Hontiveros expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Albay First District Representative Edcel Lagman, describing him as a dedicated human rights lawyer and a tireless advocate for marginalized communities.

“My most heartfelt condolences go to the Lagman family, including his daughter, Tabaco City Mayor Krisel Lagman, and the people of Albay on the passing of Ka Edcel Lagman,” Hontiveros said.

She honored Lagman’s decades of public service, highlighting his commitment to defending the rights of those who have less in life.

Lagman, a veteran lawmaker, passed away on January 30 at the age of 82 due to cardiac arrest. His daughter Krisel Lagman confirmed his death, stating that he lived with integrity and fearlessness, fighting until the end.

Hontiveros recalled working alongside Lagman on key legislative measures aimed at improving the lives of Filipinos. “I am immensely honored to have fought alongside Ka Edcel in pushing for pro-people legislation like the Cheaper Medicines Act, the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law, and quite recently, the proposed Prevention of Adolescent Pregnancy bill,” she said.

Throughout his career, Lagman championed several landmark laws, including the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law and the Anti-Torture Act.

“Despite many adversities, Ka Edcel never backed down and never gave up,” she said. “As an activist, he fought against Martial Law and the dictatorship. As a lawmaker, he advocated for the rights of women, children, LGBTQ+ persons, and other marginalized sectors—even when doing so was misunderstood and unpopular.”

Hontiveros assured that Lagman’s fight will continue beyond his passing.

“Nagdadalamhati man kami sa iyong paglisan, alam namin na ikaw ay nasa piling na ng Maykapal. Huwag kang mag-alala, kami ng buong sambayanan ang magtutuloy ng inyong laban. Dios Mabalos, Ka Edcel. Padabaon taka,” she said.