House mourns passing of Rep. Lagman
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