"Cong. Edcel was such a wonderful person. A great role model. He was always there to serve the people with utmost integrity and honor.”
Lagman a model and mentor for young lawmakers, says Atayde
At a glance

The late Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman was an inspiring model and willing mentor for young legislators in the House of Representatives—someone always open to sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with the new generation of lawmakers in Congress.
This is according to Quezon City 1st District Rep. Juan Carlos "Arjo" Atayde, who said that despite being a first-timer in the House, the veteran Lagman was always amiable and treated him and other new lawmakers respectfully.
According to Atayde, "I might be a newbie, but you always smile when you see me. You are one of the few who inspires me to do better at what we do."

“Much love, Cong. Edcel [Lagman], much respect, we will miss seeing you.”
Atayde added that Lagman's dedication and desire to serve the Filipino people was undeniable, and his track record in Congress was an enduring legacy that would inspire young legislators for years to come.
The lawmaker said Lagman "was always there for us; he was always there for his people. He may have already left us, but his legacy will always live and continuously inspire all of us.
"Cong. Edcel was such a wonderful person. A great role model. He was always there to serve the people with utmost integrity and honor.”
A lawmaker who served eight terms in Congress, Lagman was known for human rights, social justice, and progressive legislation. He was instrumental in authoring landmark laws, including the Reproductive Health Law, the Anti-Torture Law, and the Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act—the first of its kind in Asia. He also championed the Freedom of Information Bill, the Absolute Divorce Bill, and the SOGIE Equality Bill, advocating for transparency, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ protections.