Family, friends celebrate Miriam’s life
It has been three years since former Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago passed on, but her warmth and legacy will always be missed by her family and supporters.
"We miss Miriam’s laughter and warmth that used to fill our house," said the late senator's husband, former Undersecretary Narciso "Jun" Santiago Jr. on Saturday.
"But we find solace in the fact that many Filipinos continue to miss my wife, particularly during Senate hearings and debates," he said.
Sunday, September 29, marks the third death anniversary of the esteemed senator.
Her relatives and friends will celebrate her life through a mass that will be held at 10 a.m. at the EDSA Shangrila in Pasig City.
Santiago died in her sleep on September 29, 2016 after two years of battling lung cancer. She was 71.
Known as the "Iron Lady of Asia" for her feisty speeches, Santiago was considered as one of the most decorated public figures in the country, garnering achievements in her various roles in the three branches of government.
She first served as regional trial court judge in Quezon City, a commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation, and then an Agrarian Reform secretary, before becoming a senator for three terms.
Of her many awards, she was a recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award, dubbed as Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize, in 1988.
She also brought honor to the Philippines in 2013 when she became the first Filipino and first Asian to be elected as Judge of The Hague-based International Criminal Court.
In 2016, she became a member of the International Advisory Council of the International Development Law Organization.
Santiago's family believes she could still be getting more awards and accolades if she were still alive.
Filipinos, especially the youth, also continue to quote her colorful and witty words.
But even in death, her legacy is still being honored.
Just last December 2018, President Duterte conferred on Santiago the Quezon Service Cross Award, the highest recognition given by the Republic of the Philippines for outstanding civilian service.
She was the sixth person to receive the award since its creation in 1946.
Duterte paid tribute to the late senator, whom he also considered as a friend.
"Throughout her life, Senator Santiago profoundly stirred our nation, especially the youth, to challenge pre-conceived notions on political and social issues," he said in his speech.
"I am hopeful that as we recognize her exemplary contributions to society, she will serve as an inspiration to a generation of Filipinos who will use their talents for the benefit of the country and their fellowmen," Duterte added.