MANILA – House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez honored the late Albay Representative Edcel Lagman on Wednesday (05 Feb 2025) during a necrological service at the House of Representatives Plenary Hall, calling him “a true statesman” committed to democracy, human rights, and progressive legislation.
In his eulogy, Romualdez described Lagman as a man of conviction, steadfast in his principles and unafraid to stand alone in the pursuit of justice and governance for the marginalized.
“To speak of Edcel Lagman is to speak of a statesman in the truest sense,” Romualdez said, emphasizing Lagman’s legacy of advocacy for human rights, reproductive health, and good governance.
Romualdez highlighted Lagman’s pivotal contributions to landmark laws, including the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act, the abolition of the death penalty, and the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act. Despite the challenges these reforms faced, Lagman’s dedication to uplifting the forgotten was unwavering.
“Edcel was more than his legislative achievements,” Romualdez remarked. “He was a mentor, a fierce yet respectful adversary, and a defender of democracy through dialogue and dissent.”
Romualdez further reflected on the values that Lagman embodied: debating fiercely but fairly, disagreeing without dehumanizing, and holding true to principles in the face of power. He urged fellow lawmakers to emulate Lagman’s example of integrity and public service.
Concluding his tribute, Romualdez assured Lagman’s family that his impact would persist through the laws he championed and the principles he upheld. “Edcel Lagman does not belong to the past. His work, his words, and his wisdom belong to the future,” he said.
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MANILA — Lawmakers across the political spectrum have paid tribute to Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman, who passed away at 82 on Thursday due to cardiac arrest.
His death marks the loss of a respected figure in Philippine politics, known for his unwavering commitment to human rights, social justice, and good governance.
Speaker Martin Romualdez described Lagman as a “passionate and fearless legislator,” whose sharp intellect and dedication earned him respect in the House of Representatives.
He lauded Lagman’s tireless advocacy, noting that while not everyone agreed with his views, his integrity and legal expertise were undeniable.
House blue ribbon committee chairman Joel Chua praised Lagman’s mastery of law and parliamentary procedure, while Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores recalled the congressman’s sharp wit and resilience, even in the face of legal setbacks.
Bagong Henerasyon Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera highlighted Lagman’s devotion to the underprivileged and his work as past president of the Rotary Club of South Triangle.
The Makabayan bloc and various party-lists, including Gabriela, Kabataan, and Akbayan, also expressed their sorrow, calling Lagman a “true statesman” and a “mentor” to many progressive legislators.
OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa del Mar-Magsino remembered him as a venerable lawmaker dedicated to human rights and social justice.
Liberal Party members, including former senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino, mourned the loss of their president, reflecting on Lagman’s principled leadership and personal sacrifices. Former Vice President Leni Robredo, who sought his counsel during her term, also paid tribute to his wisdom and public service.
Lagman’s legacy will continue through the causes he championed, including landmark laws on reproductive health and human rights. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) honored him for his work in promoting historical authenticity and truth.
As the nation mourns, lawmakers are committed to continuing the fight for justice and the welfare of the Filipino people, inspired by Lagman’s example.
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