QUEZON City, Philippines (October 4) – Last Thursday came a sad news. On September 29,2016, at the age of 71, the Iron Lady of the Philippine Senate passed away.
Senator Grace Poe announced that Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago has passed away during a hearing on the Freedom of Information bill.The former senator died “peacefully” at 8:52 a.m. Thursday. Many of her fans and supporters as well as her colleagues in the Senate were shocked at the news. After all, it is hard to imagine that such a strong and brave personality is truly gone.
Santiago served in all the three branches of the government. She was a former presiding judge of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court. She also served as the Immigration Commissioner and as the Agrarian Reform Secretary. Of course, everyone knows that she served as a senator for three terms.
During all of those times, she did her best to serve the Filipino people
Many of her supporters went to Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina. Before the public viewing was closed, the late Senator’s supporters lined up to get a last glimpse of the Iron Lady.
The former Senator was laid to rest beside her son. She was given a 21-gun salute.
It is sad to think that the strongest woman in the Senate is really gone.
Even in death, former Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago could still shine a light on the state of the nation. As we collectively remembers her life we are reminded to be vigilant – not only against those who are corrupt but also those who are incompetent and, borrowing the late Senator’s frank rhetoric – stupid.
A fighter, a woman and a mother – her passing also signals the passing of an era. An era where politicians were known for their intelligence and their wit. That is her true legacy.
The Iron Lady will always be remembered for her sharp legal mind, uncompromising stand and acid humor.
(written by Darla Maica Benedicto, edited by Jay Paul Carlos, additional research by Vince Alvin Villarin)