Santiago, outstanding lawyer, without equal — Estrada

In this June 20, 2011 file photo, former president and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada congratulates then senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on the renewal of her marital vows with husband Narciso Santiago on their 40th wedding anniversary. Looking on in a terno gown is former first lady Imelda Marcos. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ MARIANNE V. BERMUDEZ

MANILA — Without equal.

This was how Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada remembered the late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago when she took to the Senate floor.

“Her opinions, insights, speeches and interpellations spoke volumes of her brilliance and knowledge of the law and of the Constitution,” he said.

He said she was an “outstanding lawmaker, whose work helped make the Philippine Senate one of the most trusted institutions in our country.”

“As one of many lady senators elected to office, it was Senator Miriam who most inspired my admiration,” he said.

He said everyone should remember her “legacy” to the nation: “The courage to speak the truth, and the willingness to sacrifice in order to do right by our fellowman.”

He said outside the Senate, the senator was “humorous, very witty and easy to get along with.”

He said she liked to help, something many did not know about because she was not in the business of saying so.

“And she loved her family: They were her real source of inspiration and strength,” he said.

“I am deeply and profoundly saddened by the news of Senator (Santiago’s) passing, and extend my sympathies to her husband Jun, and children Archie and Alexander,” he said.  SFM/rga