Bishop Bacani: Miriam’s memory a reminder to fight for ‘good’

MANILA, Philippines – Bishop Teodoro Bacani Jr. on Sunday said late Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s memory is a reminder for Filipinos to fight for the good.

In his funeral message for Santiago, Bacani said the late senator is already in good hands. He paid tribute to Santiago and thanked her for her public service and contribution to the nation.

“Miriam, inihahatid ka namin. Ang huling hantungan mo ay hindi ang libingan, ang huling hantungan mo ay ang kamay ng puso ng Panginoon. The hands of the just are in the hands of God. In my Father's house, there are mini –mansions, nandoon ang huling hantungan mo,” Bacani said during the homily.

“At ang huling hantungan mo rin ay nasa aming mga puso. Habang naalaala ka namin, alam naming dapat ituloy ang laban para sa kabutihan. Salamat, Miriam,” the bishop added.

Bacani also comforted the bereaved family, including widower Narciso “Jun” Santiago. He said the senator’s contributions will last in the memory of Filipinos as he described her as a “princess in every Filipino’s hearts.”

Miriam’s name means princess. "Miriam stands out as a princess. A princess stands out not proudly but with dignity," Bacani said.

The final mass for Santiago, who passed away last Thursday, was held at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Marikina City. It was led by Bacani and Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco.

The funeral mass was also attended by her family, friends and colleagues.

Santiago has been laid to rest at the Loyola Memorial Park on Sunday afternoon.