Fearless in the Face of Power

“Panginoon bigyan mo ko ng isa pang buhay, at imbestigahin ko lahat isa-isa.” These are the powerful words roared by the Iron Lady of Asia, Miriam Defensor Santiago. A politician who revolutionized Filipino politics while clashing against her opponents in hearings as her name fiercely bellows the wits of courage, intelligence, and an unwavering dedication to justice. Santiago's career broke barriers and boundaries by setting new standards that prove women when empowered, can reshape the values that our patriarchal society has built. The legacy she has left remains a testament to her skills as a legislator but also pays homage to her relentless fight for the rights of Filipinas.

A prodigy’s journey that shook the world of politics.

Miriam’s journey into law and politics was cunningly carved by her prodigious intellect and unyielding will. Born on June 15, 1945, she graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines College of Law. She later studied at the prestigious University of Oxford as a Chevening Scholar, a testament to her impeccable abilities that served as her potential to become the youngest ever appointed judge at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) and later served as a trial judge in the Quezon City RTC.

Her boldness, bravery, and brilliance echoed in her early career when, even as an immigration commissioner, she fought the monsters of corruption and bureaucratic inefficiency like a warrior carrying the spear of justice ready to rule the fight. Her virtuous crusade for justice didn’t end there; Santiago was appointed as a judge to the prestigious beacon of righteousness, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2011. She became the first Filipino woman to earn such a great deal of honor which truly showcases her immense flair for politics. Despite facing multiple setbacks and health challenges throughout her career, Santiago’s unwavering commitment to the law and her country’s progress remained steadfast.

The Lady who wove the threads of fate on the loom of governance to weave the fabric of the future for women.

Miriam’s dramatic entry into the runway of the Philippine Senate marked the beginning of her most influential role as a lawmaker. An impact that began an era that would be regarded as the golden age of Filipino politics, where clash after clash she came out on top. Serving for three terms, she consistently championed women's rights, justice, and anti-corruption measures. Her no-nonsense approach and sharp intellect earned her boatloads of people’s respect, even from her political rivals. Known for her fierce speeches and fiery debates, Santiago’s voice unapologetically addressed controversial issues that others were often too hesitant to even mutter a word about.

Santiago's fight for women’s rights and gender equality was evident in the many pieces of legislation she authored. One of her most notable contributions was her push for the Magna Carta of Women, a law that aimed to eliminate discrimination against women in the country. As a staunch advocate for reproductive health, she also authored the landmark Reproductive Health Law, which sought to improve the country’s maternal health care system and give women access to family planning services. She has truly shaken the world of Filipino politics weaving the textile of law for future generations.

Her voice was a storm that shattered the silence, a fearless cry against the chains of patriarchy that bound Filipino politics. Santiago didn’t just challenge authority — she exposed its flaws, demanding that women in power be met with equal respect and dignity. Her defiance wasn’t mere rhetoric, it was a battle cry that echoed from crowded streets to quiet barrios, stirring a movement that could no longer be ignored. In a world where men’s shadows loomed large, she stood as an unyielding flame, her rise to prominence a blazing reminder that power, when faced with courage, must reckon with change.

The Iron Lady has lowered her voice of justice and walked towards the sunset.

Miriam Defensor Santiago’s career remains a legacy of bold leadership, where she broke barriers, championed justice, and reshaped the political landscape for women in the Philippines. Her tireless fight for gender equality, human rights, and anti-corruption reform not only made her a powerful lawmaker but also an icon of resilience and intellect in a male-dominated arena. Miriam’s enduring impact continues to inspire women across the nation, proving that women in politics are not just participants but powerful agents of change. She redefined what it means to be a female leader, challenging societal norms and confronting systems of power. Her legacy is not just a testament to her strength and resolve—it’s a blueprint for future generations of women to follow, showing them that leadership is not defined by gender, but by courage and conviction. So, who’s next to rise and carry that torch?

Miriam Defensor Santiago was not just a woman who carried the burden of corruption and collusion, she also became the beacon of women in Asia, illuminating and inspiring countless women for generations to come.

A ZONTA FEATURE