Edcel Lagman: His mother’s son

The Legacy of Edcel Lagman: A Champion​ for Labor and Justice

Edcel Lagman,a stalwart advocate for⁢ workers’ rights and a ​prominent figure ⁢in Filipino politics,passed away on January 30th,leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to social justice.​

Lagman’s⁤ journey began in ​a small‌ town in Albay, where​ he was given​ a unique name, a testament to his mother’s rebellious spirit and feminist ideals. ‍ “my mother had a rebellious spirit in her. My mother ⁤was a feminist,” he once said of his⁢ mother, cecilia castelar, an elementary school​ teacher who‍ defied societal norms by⁤ choosing a name​ considered unconventional for her son.

Though academically gifted, young Edcel initially struggled with reading, relying on memorization rather than comprehension. ‍​ His secret was revealed when the principal‍ challenged him to spell‌ twenty⁢ words; he faltered, revealing his‌ true academic standing. This sparked a​ turning point, leading him to develop a genuine love for reading and learning.

Driven by a strong sense of obligation towards his family, Edcel took on the role of a newspaper and lottery seller. He embraced competition, running two kilometers from the terminal to town to secure ⁢his sales,⁤ motivated by the desire to contribute financially to his household. Through these experiences,he developed‌ empathy towards ‌others,observing the lives and struggles of his fellow newspaper sellers and readers.

Edcel’s path illuminated with remarkable academic success. He excelled in high school and university, becoming an editor for the esteemed Philippine Collegian while studying at the⁣ University of the ⁤Philippines.He graduated cum laude in 1962 and later ⁢earned‍ his law degree in 1966.
Edcel’s passion for law ignited under the guidance of a Supreme Court‍ justice, who instilled in him the nuances‌ of administering justice.Initially drawn ‌to corporate law, ‍he ultimately‍ gravitated towards advocating ⁢for laborers, finding solace in championing the rights of ​the underprivileged. He fearlessly defended workers, ensuring their human rights ⁤were not violated.

During the tumultuous ⁣period of ‍Martial Law⁣ in 1972, Edcel consciously tempered his vocal support for ‌workers, opting for a more discreet approach to aid them. Though, his younger brother, ‍Hermon, who ​also pursued a legal career, continued to fight alongside him.

The Life and Legacy of Edcel Lagman: A Champion for the People

Edcel lagman’s journey ​is one of unwavering‍ commitment to social justice and the well-being‌ of filipino ‌citizens. His story, deeply intertwined with the turbulent history of​ the Philippines, is a testament to the enduring power of courage, conviction, ⁣and ‌unwavering dedication to public service.

Growing up ‍amidst the struggles of the Marcos dictatorship, Lagman witnessed the ​brutal consequences of oppression firsthand.His brother, ⁤Hermon, faced a tragic fate, disappearing without a trace‍ due to ‍his compassion for the marginalized. This‌ experience molded Lagman’s worldview,‍ igniting a fire in his heart to fight for the rights of the voiceless.

While another brother, Filemon, known as⁣ “Ka Popoy,” chose the path of armed resistance, leading an ​underground‍ movement against the regime, Edcel opted for a different strategy: politics. Recognizing the power of⁣ democratic processes, he entered the political ⁤arena, steadfast to effect⁢ change through ‍legal means.

Following the Marcos​ regime’s downfall and the restoration of democracy, Lagman successfully ran for congressman in his hometown. He served for three consecutive terms⁢ (1987-1998) ⁢and later again in 2004,becoming a steadfast advocate for the people he represented.

Throughout his political career, Lagman championed ‌numerous progressive causes, focusing on issues that directly addressed the⁢ needs of‌ ordinary‌ Filipinos. Land reform,access to affordable healthcare,and the abolition of the death penalty were among his​ top priorities. He tirelessly fought against enforced disappearances, driven ​by the memory of his⁢ brother ​Hermon and ⁤a burning desire to prevent such tragedies from ‍happening to others.

Lagman also proved to be a champion of reproductive health rights. Despite facing strong opposition, he tirelessly advocated for legislation⁣ that ‌would empower Filipinos to make informed decisions about their ⁢bodies and families. “I ⁢supported an RH bill as it would help Filipinos get out of misery and poverty,” he stated, articulating the ‍core of his belief.

His unwavering commitment to his constituents, even⁢ in the face of adversity, earned him immense respect. He ⁢acknowledged the frustrations that came with navigating the complexities of‍ politics, yet remained resolute in his mission. “You have to accept some things and people cannot be⁢ changed and so you have to work on the other things and people,” he said,showcasing‍ his pragmatic approach.

Beyond his political accomplishments, Lagman offered⁣ valuable advice to⁢ young people, emphasizing the importance ​of hard⁣ work and integrity. “There is ​no substitute for industry. You have to ‌be industrious and hardworking at all times to succeed,” ​he ‌urged. ‍“You may have the talent ​but if you have‌ no dedication and industry to harness it, it would ‌come to ⁤nothing,” he ⁢added, highlighting the significance of unwavering effort and dedication.

Lagman also stressed the importance of honesty‍ as a cornerstone of leadership. “You have​ to be honest to ‍yourself and others,” he‍ stated, urging aspiring ⁢leaders to uphold ethical principles in all their endeavors.

Facing persistent attacks and misinformation, Lagman remained unfazed. He⁤ met the challenges head-on,⁤ choosing to address them with facts and a ​commitment to open and obvious discourse. “I took pains to explain​ the facts ⁤and ​only ⁤the facts about what​ the bill is all about and what it is ‌indeed not,” he‌ asserted, demonstrating his dedication to truth and clarity.

His commitment to the RH bill was unwavering. ⁢ He even ​sacrificed his position on other committees, choosing to dedicate all his energy to this cause that he believed was crucial for the well-being of the nation. He recalled ⁤long⁣ hours,⁢ tireless ⁢efforts, and tireless engagement with ‌diverse audiences, including forums⁣ and even seminaries. He underscored the importance of thorough research and genuine understanding, stating, “Of course, it also helped that ⁤you really have​ to read through all the sides. And no faking it.”

Edcel Lagman’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the ⁤Filipino ⁤people. His life exemplifies the power of individual action in shaping the course of⁢ history. As his mother must surely be proud,⁣ “For all that he has done,” he has truly made a profound impact that will continue to inspire generations to come.

What impact⁣ did Congressman‌ Lagman’s legal work have on the lives​ of Filipino workers during his time as⁣ a⁢ lawyer?

Remembering Edcel Lagman: A Champion ⁤for Workers’ Rights

Today, we remember Edcel⁣ Lagman, a tireless advocate for ⁢Filipino workers and⁤ a beacon of hope for social justice. Joining us today is Atty. Maria Santos, ‌a former colleague and ⁢close friend of congressman lagman.⁣ Atty. Santos, thank you ‍for sharing your insights ​with⁣ us.

Atty. Santos: Thank you for having me. ⁤It’s an ⁤honor​ to speak about ‌Congressman Lagman,⁢ a truly remarkable individual.

From Humble Beginnings to Legal Champion

Archyde: Congressman Lagman’s journey began in humble circumstances. Could you tell​ us about his early ‍life and what shaped his ‌commitment to fighting for workers’ rights?

Atty. Santos: Edcel’s upbringing instilled in him a deep empathy for the struggles of ordinary Filipinos. Growing⁤ up, he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by ⁢his fellow citizens, especially workers. His experiences selling newspapers and lottery tickets taught him ⁢the importance of fair ‍treatment and equal opportunities.

His passion for justice blossomed ‍under the guidance ​of a Supreme Court justice,⁤ who ignited ‍his​ desire to champion the rights of the marginalized.Even as a young lawyer, he gravitated towards advocating for laborers, finding solace in defending their rights.

Navigating Martial Law and political Activism

Archyde: Congressman Lagman’s activism continued‌ even during the tumultuous Martial ‍Law era. How did he navigate those challenging times?

Atty. Santos: While his younger brother, Hermon, chose armed resistance, Edcel believed ​in fighting for ‍justice through democratic means.⁢ He recognized the power of⁢ politics⁤ and ​entered the arena, steadfast in his commitment to effecting change. Though he tempered his‍ vocal support for workers, he continued to discreetly aid ​them, ensuring their voices were heard despite the oppressive regime.

A ⁢Legacy of Advocacy and Progress

Archyde: Congressman Lagman’s legacy is marked by numerous ‌progressive ‌achievements. ‍Which ​of his accomplishments are you most proud‍ of?

Atty. Santos: His ​unwavering commitment to reproductive‌ health rights stands out.Despite facing⁣ fierce opposition, he tirelessly advocated for legislation that⁤ empowered Filipinos to make informed decisions about their bodies and ​families.⁤ He believed strongly that access to healthcare, including reproductive healthcare, was fundamental to improving⁢ the lives of⁣ Filipinos.

his dedication to land reform,‌ affordable healthcare, and‌ the​ abolition of the ⁤death penalty also significantly impacted countless lives. He truly fought for the betterment ⁤of all filipinos,irrespective of their background or circumstances.

A​ Lasting Inspiration

Archyde: Congressman ‌Lagman’s life serves as ‌an inspiration to ⁢aspiring activists and politicians. What ⁣message do⁣ you think‍ he would ‌leave for young Filipinos today?

Atty. Santos: I believe Congressman Lagman‍ would urge young⁢ Filipinos to never stop⁤ fighting ‌for what’s right. He’d emphasize the importance of‌ hard work, integrity, and unwavering dedication to ⁣serving the people.⁤ He’d ⁢remind them ⁤that⁣ even in the face of adversity, their voices matter, and their ⁣actions can make a real difference.

He’d encourage them to embrace the democratic process, to ⁢engage in open and honest discourse, and to ⁣never lose sight of their commitment to ​justice and equality.

Archyde: Thank you, ⁢Atty.Santos, for sharing⁣ your insights. Congressman⁣ Lagman’s legacy will​ undoubtedly⁢ continue to‌ inspire generations to‍ come. What lasting ⁣impact do you think his work will have on the Philippines?

atty.Santos: I believe Congressman Lagman’s ⁤legacy ⁢will be remembered as​ a testament to the power of ⁤unwavering commitment⁣ to ‌social justice. His tireless advocacy for workers’ rights, reproductive healthcare, and other progressive causes will continue to shape the Philippines for the better. He showed us that even one person, driven by conviction and compassion, can make a profound difference.