Former senator Rene Saguisag passes away at 84

Former senator Rene Saguisag has passed away, his family announced. He was 84.

His son Rebo through a Facebook post shared his family’s statement on Wednesday, April 24. No cause of death was given.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Papa and Lolo,” they said. “As we mourn his loss, we take solace in the enduring impact of his legacy.”

Saguisag’s family described him as a “dedicated public servant, and his tireless endeavors as a human rights advocate, senator, and writer stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and democracy.”

They said that for Saguisag, expertise in law was a means to serve the poor and disenfranchised. They pointed out that he also provided free legal aid to those in need.

“We are grateful that, in his final months, he was able to spend time with relatives, friends, and countless supporters,” they said. “He passed away knowing that he was much loved and respected.”

Saguisag’s family asked for privacy as they grieve. They said they’ll soon announce details of the service honoring his life.

“Papa/Lolo has passed on, but his spirit will continue to inspire us to strive for a more just world,” they said.

Saguisag became a senator from 1987 until 1992. Before that, he served as the spokesperson of president-elect Cory Aquino in 1986.

He served as a human rights lawyer during the martial law years of the late former president Ferdinand Marcos.

Saguisag is survived by his wife, former social welfare secretary Dulce Quintans, and their five children.