Senator Mark Villar has lauded the renaming of two Quezon City roads--Agham and BIR Roads--into Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago Avenue. 

In a statement, he stated that the renaming of the two roads after the late senator was in line with the lapsing into law of the Republic Act (RA) No. 11963 last Oct. 12, 2023.

“It is very heartwarming that we are honoring one of the outstanding icons of Philippine politics through this tribute of naming an avenue after her. The late Senator Miriam has immensely contributed to the development of our political landscape and has positively influenced thousands of public servants like myself,” Villar said.

Villar graced the ceremony where the street marker that declared the name change was unveiled. He joined Vice President Sara Duterte, and local officials of Quezon City led by Mayor Joy Belmonte. 

Senator Santiago's widower, lawyer Jun Santiago; and Senators Koko Pimentel, Francis Tolentino, and Robin Padilla all joined the program.

“As a public servant, ako po ay lubos na humahanga kay Sen. Miriam. I have long admired her dedication to public service, anchored on the desire to improve the lives of our fellow Filipinos. Her brilliant career and commendable work ethic have inspired me to pursue this path in service of the Filipino people,” Villar added.

The late senator served all three branches of the government. She was a senator for three terms, a presiding judge of the regional trial court (RTC) in Quezon City, and a commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration. 

She is also a well-decorated international figure; she was the first Asian judge elected to the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the first Filipino elected as commissioner for the International Development Organization. She also served as a legal officer at the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Refugees in Geneva, Switzerland.

“Senator Miriam isn’t dubbed as the 'Iron Lady of Asia' for nothing. She has defended the interests of the people in different platforms and at all levels. Her steadfast commitment to public service merits our lifelong remembrance of her through this avenue. As we pay tribute to her, I hope that the next generations of Filipino youth and public servants will mirror Sen. Miriam’s commitment to the public,” Villar said.