Former Senator Rene Saguisag (Leila De Lima's Facebook page)

Members of the Makabayan bloc mourned the passing of prominent human rights advocate and former senator Rene Saguisag, as they remembered the “indelible mark” he left in Philippine history.

In a statement on Wednesday, April 24, ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Women’s Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel said Saguisag’s legacy as a public servant and human rights lawyer will continue to inspire generations of Filipinos to fight for a more just and equitable society.

“The Makabayan bloc in Congress extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and supporters of former Senator Rene Saguisag, a staunch advocate for human rights and democracy in the Philippines,” the militant lawmakers said.

“Former Senator Saguisag's unwavering commitment to upholding justice and defending the rights of the Filipino people has left an indelible mark on our nation's history,” they added.

The Makabayan pointed out that during the martial law period, Saguisag was a staunch defender of political prisoners, and helped them stand up against the rule of late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

The left-leaning group also noted that the former senator was part of the so-called "Magnificent 12”. which rejected a treaty that would have extended the stay of United States (US) military bases in the country.

“It is especially sad that his passing is during the biggest US-Philippine military exercises under Balikatan,” the group stressed.

Makabayan said Saguisag continued to be an exemplary pillar for human rights even in his latter years. They cited his filed cases against the Anti-Terror Law in 2020 and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) treaty under late former President Benigno Aquino III. 

“As it is, during this moment of loss, we join the Saguisag family in mourning the passing of a great statesman. We honor his life lived with integrity and purpose, and we stand in solidarity with all those who have been touched by his wisdom and compassion,” said the bloc.

“As we remember the contributions of former Senator Rene Saguisag, may his spirit guide us in our ongoing struggle for genuine social change and the advancement of the people's rights and welfare,” the group said.

“Rest in power, former Senator Rene Saguisag. Your legacy will forever be remembered and cherished by all who continue the fight for a better Philippines,” the lawmakers added.

Saguisag’s family confirmed the former senator's death on Wednesday morning. He was 84.

He served as a senator from 1987 until 1992, where he chaired the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privilege and ad hoc committee on the Bataan Nuclear power plant.