Senators mourn passing of ex-Senate President Angara

Former Senate President Edgardo J. Angara (File photo from Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Senators expressed their sorrow on learning of the death of former Senate President Edgardo J. Angara, who passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 83.

Sen. Joel Villanueva said he was “out of words to adequately express the sorrow I feel at this moment.”

In a statement, Villanueva said Angara, who treated him like his own son, was his “biggest mentor and inspiration” since he joined public service.

The neophyte senator remembered “notable and landmark” laws authored by Angara on education, healthcare, agriculture and social welfare.

Angara served as president of the University of the Philippines from 1981 to 1987.

“His legacy will be forever carried on through the lives of our countrymen,” he said.

Sen. Loren Legarda, a UP alumna, said: “We lost a great man, a visionary, an indefatigable worker, esteemed public servant, deep thinker, one of the Phl’s most brilliant minds, a dear friend.

Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, also a UP alumnus, joined his colleagues in praising Angara.

“We mourn the loss of an excellent lawyer, dedicated educator, esteemed former colleague in the Senate and patriot,” he said in a statement. “I most respectfully convey my sincerest condolences to his bereaved wife, children, family and loved ones.” /atm