Edcel Lagman’s legacy lives on
By Rhaydz Barcia
TABACO CITY --- Representative Edcel Lagman, often regarded as the “Superman of Albay,” leaves behind a towering legacy in politics, shaping a new generation of leaders in the province’s first district.
Among those mentored by the late lawmaker are Ako Bicol Rep. Gil Bongalon, Albay Acting Governor Baby Glenda Ong-Bongao, her son and Tabaco City Councilor John Gio Ong-Bongao, as well as lawyers Shiena Onrubia-Dela Cruz and Elmar Barreda, both of whom are running for provincial board member seats in the first district of Albay.
Bongalon, formerly an ex-officio member and city councilor of Tabaco, rose through the ranks under Lagman’s guidance before becoming a nominee of Ako Bicol. He is now contesting the congressional seat in the first district of Albay against Mayor Krisel Lagman, the late congressman’s eldest daughter.
As a gesture of mourning, Acting Governor Ong-Bongao ordered the Philippine flag flown at half-mast across the province in honor of Rep. Edcel Lagman Sr.
“On January 30, 2025, the good statesman, incumbent First District Rep. Edcel C. Lagman Sr., peacefully joined our Creator. Section 27 of the Rules and Regulations implementing the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines (RA 8491) mandates that the national flag be flown at half-mast for five days following the official announcement of a member of the House of Representatives' passing,” Ong-Bongao stated.
“Now, therefore, as Acting Governor of the Province of Albay, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law and the Constitution of the Philippines, I hereby order that the Philippine Flag be flown at half-mast in all government offices and public places where it is displayed throughout the entire province from February 3 to February 7, 2025, as a sign of respect, honor, and recognition of Rep. Edcel C. Lagman Sr. for his exemplary service to the Albayanos and the Filipino people,” she declared.
Messages of Mourning
Former Vice President Leni Robredo expressed deep sorrow over Lagman’s passing, recalling her personal connection with him.
“Mourning the death of Cong. Edcel Lagman. Much has been said about his admirable work as a public servant and his courage in standing by his principles,” she wrote on Facebook.
“My fondness for him was very personal. When I was Vice President, I sought him for political advice. His wisdom, borne from years as an outstanding public servant, always helped me gain clarity. My visits to his Quezon City home were memorable—not only for the invaluable counsel but also for the warm hospitality. Bicol lost a great son. He will be terribly missed.”
Former Albay Governor Al Francis Bichara and Catanduanes Governor Joseph “Boboy” Cua also paid tribute.
“Rest in peace, Manoy Edcel. You dedicated your life to serving our community, and you will be deeply missed. Thank you for your friendship and all you did for Albay and the Bicol Region,” Bichara said.
“He was a true Bicolano icon in public service and governance, leaving a legacy of dedication and leadership. My deepest condolences to Edcel 'Grex' Lagman, Mayor Krisel, and the entire Lagman family,” Cua added.
A Life Dedicated to Public Service
Mayor Krisel Lagman announced her father’s passing, sharing a heartfelt tribute.
“With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Albay First District Representative and Liberal Party President Edcel C. Lagman. He left this world the way he lived—with integrity, compassion, and fearlessness. He fought until the end with the same tenacity and unshakable hopefulness that defined his entire life.”
“He will be remembered as a devoted father, a thoughtful brother, uncle, and grandfather, a loyal friend, and an unwavering advocate for human rights and the rule of law.”
Lagman was born on May 1, 1942, and passed away on January 30, 2025, at exactly 5:01 PM due to cardiac arrest. His passing marks the end of an era in Philippine politics. He served 29 years in Congress (1987–1998, 2004–2013, and 2016–2025) and was an Undersecretary of the Ministry of Budget and Management under the Cory Aquino administration. A cum laude graduate of the University of the Philippines, Lagman authored landmark laws such as: Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act (RA 10354) Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (RA 6657) Abolition of the Death Penalty Act (RA 9346) Compensation for Martial Law Victims Act (RA 10368) Anti-Enforced Disappearance Act (RA 10353) Anti-Torture Act (RA 9745) Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (RA 11596) He also championed pending bills on absolute divorce, teenage pregnancy prevention, human rights defenders’ protection, and the prohibition of red-tagging. Recognized for his contributions, Lagman received the Haligi ng Bantayog Award (2023), Most Outstanding UP Alumnus (2022), and Human Development Legislator Lifetime Achievement Award (2017).
Final Arrangements
Lagman’s remains lie in state at Mt. Carmel Shrine, New Manila, Quezon City, before being transferred to his residence in Sogod, Bacacay, Albay on February 2, 2025. He will be moved to St. John the Baptist Parish Church in Tabaco City on February 4, with necrological services at the House of Representatives on February 5 at 10:30 AM. After returning to Mt. Carmel Shrine from February 6–9, his final interment will take place at Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina, on February 10, 2025, following a funeral mass at 8:30 AM.
Tribute Programs at Mt. Carmel Shrine
February 5 (8 PM) – Women Advocates and House of Representatives Officials & Employees February 6 (8 PM) – Human Rights and Labor Advocates February 7 4 PM – Alpha Phi Beta Fraternity 8 PM – UP College of Law & Friends February 8 (8 PM) – Liberal Party & Media Friends February 9 (8 PM) – Final Farewell by Family.
In Lieu of Flowers
The family requests donations for the restoration and repair of St. John the Baptist Parish Church in Tabaco City, a National Cultural Treasure since 2001, which was devastated by Super Typhoon Rolly in 2020.
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