He Lived Up to His Name

Former Senator and Human Rights lawyer Rene A.V. Saguisag was a man who lived up to his name. He was truly a symbol of the ultimate statesman. He was the symbol of an era of true patriots, respectable public servants, and admirable human rights defenders alongside the great Jose Diokno and Lorenzo Tanada. He was the symbol of compassionate service to those who have “less in life, that they may have more in law”. In his short term as a Senator, he represented that breed of politicians who had integrity and accountability in the fulfillment of his sworn duties, and lived his life in single-minded purpose for and dedication to nationalism, social justice and democracy. He was an inspiring role model not only to his peers but to idealistic young Filipinos who seek to live their lives for love of country.

It can be recalled that in 2019, Senator Saguisag was one of those who stood by then beleaguered Senator Leila de Lima and supported that she be allowed to participate in Senate hearings via teleconferencing. He was a staunch critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody war against drugs, and strongly opposed its human rights violations. He was also one of the twelve senators called the “Magnificent 12” who made the historic vote against the renewal of the US military bases’ stay in the Philippines. His role as the first spokesperson of the late President Corazon Aquino following the EDSA Revolution cannot be undermined. He was indeed a true Filipino and a champion of the oppressed and the disadvantaged in society.

After the tributes following his death have died down, let our long-lasting tribute to this great man be the passing on of his legacy to the next generation of Filipinos who will shape the future of the country he so loved and gave his life for.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted; the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most; that has made it possible for evil to triumph.”

Haile Selassie

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right.”

- Psalm 106:3