Written By: Shenellyn P. Pineda and Vince C. Glorioso
The late Senator Rene Saguisag’s legacy is defined by his dedication to human rights, justice, and compassion for the marginalized. His sons, Atty. Rene Andrei “Rebo” and Lawrence Mikhail Saguisag, recall how their father’s empathy and commitment shaped their upbringing, influencing their values and aspirations. The senator’s life’s work is a testament of his fairness and integrity, which he passed on to the next generation.
A Childhood Shaped by Kindness and Compassion
Reflecting on their childhood, Atty. Rebo and Lawrence always see their father’s dedication to justice and his code centered on the importance of family. For them, there is constant pressure in meeting expectations set by public perception because of their father’s achievements.
Despite all the glory, Senator Saguisag instilled humility and empathy as a cardinal virtue to be honed within his family.
Atty. Rebo pondered upon a story his father told him, which is about a fictional lawyer, Allan Dory who devoted countless hours to pro bono work. When asked why, Senator Saguisag simply replied, “all you can ever do in life is be kind.” This maxim shaped Atty. Rebo’s outlook on life, keeping it as a treasure in his heart.
Known for his love of sports, he shared this passion by involving his children in basketball, tennis, and softball. Atty. Rebo said that the former senator also dreamt of being a courtside reporter. Believing in the saying that “a sound body makes for a sound mind,” he emphasized the importance of balance, modeling it through his commitment to both his career and an active lifestyle.
On the Call for Genuine Public Service
Senator Saguisag consistently underscored the need to balance the power in society by advocating for those with little influence. To him, real justice requires standing up for the marginalized—a principle his son believes is still crucial today. Saguisag often cautioned against letting “the tambays and the epals” take over politics, referring to leaders whose concern is popularity rather than genuine public service and competence. His son finds this warning especially pertinent now, as social media often places superficial popularity above true merit and dedication.
Upholding the late senator’s legacy is challenging in today’s polarized political landscape. His son notes that politics has become driven by spectacle, often prioritizing popularity over qualifications and ethics. He compares it to a race, where many enter unprepared. His father’s legacy underscores the importance of competence, preparation, and ongoing learning—values his son believes are crucial for future leaders.
Looking Ahead
A key element of his father’s legacy that Atty. Rebo hopes to continue is the restoration of the Palanan People’s Law and Lost Causes Center (PPLLCC), a pro bono legal office his father established. This center was a reflection of Saguisag’s dedication to providing justice to the underprivileged, and his son is determined to reopen it in the future to carry on that same mission of public service.
Senator Rene Saguisag’s life was defined by his kindness, integrity, and commitment to advocacy. His sons honor this legacy not just by remembering it, but by actively working to uphold and build on these values with the goal of inspiring a new generation of leaders who are selfless, ethical, and most of all, kind.
THE BARRISTER 