Miriam Defensor-Santiago passed away early this morning. This was confirmed by her husband, Atty. Jun Santiago.
The former senator and public servant died peacefully at exactly 8:52am while she was confined at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City. The senator was reported to have been admitted a few weeks ago for cancer treatment.
Meanwhile, senators mourned of her passing and dedicated a moment of silence and prayer during the hearing of Freedom of Information (FOI) bill.
Back in 2014, the lawmaker announced that she had stage 4 lung cancer. Despite her condition, Santiago ran for the presidency during the last elections placing fifth place among the candidates.
Known for her acerbic speeches, mastery of the law, oratorical skills, unblemished record as a public official, and sometimes sardonic sense of humor, Santiago gained the respect of friends and foes alike. She remained an admired politician among the younger generation. Her fearlessness caused her to be dubbed the Iron Lady of Asia.
