THE House of Representatives on Wednesday paid tribute to the late Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, with Speaker Martin G. Romualdez delivering a powerful and heartfelt eulogy about the lawmaker’s dedication to democracy, human rights and progressive legislation.

During the necrological service at the Plenary Hall, Speaker Romualdez described Lagman as a true statesman whose legacy will endure beyond his lifetime.

“Today, we gather not merely to mourn the passing of a legislator but to honor a life devoted to the unrelenting pursuit of justice, the unwavering defense of democracy and the fearless exercise of principle,” Speaker Romualdez said.

“To speak of Edcel Lagman is to speak of a statesman in the truest sense of the word. He was a man of deep conviction, unafraid to stand alone when necessary, and unyielding in his belief that governance is not about placating the powerful but about serving the powerless,” he added.

Lagman, who served in the House of Representatives for multiple terms, was known as a staunch advocate of human rights, reproductive health and good governance. Throughout his career, he championed landmark legislation that continues to shape Philippine law and society.

“For decades, he walked these halls as both a legislator and a leader – sometimes in the majority, often in the minority, but always in the service of the Filipino people. His name became synonymous with progressive reform, human rights and an independent Congress that held itself accountable to history, not just to the tides of politics,” Speaker Romualdez noted.

“He was the architect of laws that will endure beyond his lifetime – the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act, the abolition of the death penalty, the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act – each a pillar of his legislative legacy,” he continued.

While these legislative battles were often met with resistance, Lagman remained steadfast, believing that public service meant standing for the marginalized rather than seeking the approval of the privileged.

“They were not always popular. They were not always easy. But Edcel Lagman did not come to Congress to seek the approval of the comfortable. He came to uplift those who had been forgotten,” Speaker Romualdez stressed.

Beyond his legislative work, Lagman was also remembered as a mentor, a principled leader and a formidable yet respectful opponent in debates. His ability to stand his ground while maintaining respect for differing views was a defining characteristic of his leadership.

“Edcel was more than the sum of the bills he passed or the speeches he delivered. He was a mentor to many, a fierce but respectful opponent, and above all, a man who understood that democracy is built not on agreement but on dialogue, not on uniformity but on dissent,” Speaker Romualdez emphasized.

He urged fellow lawmakers to draw inspiration from Lagman’s example, particularly in upholding integrity in governance and ensuring that debates in Congress are founded on principles rather than mere political power.

“We who remain in public service would do well to learn from his example. To debate fiercely but fairly. To disagree but never to dehumanize. To never confuse power with principle, nor compromise with surrender,” he said.

Speaker Romualdez also recognized the sacrifices Lagman made throughout his career, carrying causes that were often difficult but necessary for national progress.

“In the House of Representatives, we are measured not by the number of our terms, nor the height of our titles, but by the weight of the causes we choose to carry. Edcel Lagman carried his causes with honor. He carried them with dignity. He carried them even when they became burdens,” he added.

As lawmakers, colleagues and family bid farewell to Lagman, Speaker Romualdez assured his family that his legacy remains alive in the laws he championed and in the principles he upheld throughout his life.

“To his family, we extend our deepest condolences. But know this: Edcel Lagman does not belong to the past. His work, his words and his wisdom belong to the future,” he said.

Ending his eulogy, Speaker Romualdez paid his final respects, expressing hope that history would remember Lagman as a legislator who stood for what was right, even when it was not easy, even when it was not convenient and even when he had to stand alone.

“Maraming salamat, Edcel. Paalam at pagpupugay,” Speaker Romualdez said.

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Ryan Ponce Pacpaco