Miriam Defensor-Santiago laid to rest

MANILA, Philippines –Family, friends, colleagues and supporters of former senator and presidential candidate Miriam Defensor-Santiago gathered on Sunday to bring her to her final resting place at the Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City.

Priest Aris Sison officiated the burial rites for Santiago. She was also sent off with 21-gun salute courtesy of honor guards.

A Mass was held at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral earlier Sunday. The final mass was presided by Bishops Teodoro Bacani Jr., Honesto Ongtioco, and other priests while the Philippine Madrigal Singers served as choir for the Mass.

“Please help us when you stand at the side of our Lord Jesus Christ in heaven,” Bacani said of the late senator during the Mass.

As per Santiago’s request, she was laid to rest beside her son, Alexander. The latter passed away in 2003 after committing suicide.

Family and supporters of the late @senmiriam leaving the Cubao Cathedral after mass for her burial rites in Marikina l @PhilippineStar pic.twitter.com/TMeW7QrVe8

— Romina Cabrera (@romina_marie) October 2, 2016

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago to be laid to rest at Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina. #miriam pic.twitter.com/q713X1gm4w

— Kristian F. Javier (@kefjavier) October 2, 2016

The 71-year-old politician passed away last Thursday in her sleep after her long bout with lung cancer. Her wake was held at the Assumption Chapel of the Cathedral Grottos also in Cubao, Quezon City.

Senator Miriam arrives at Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina. #Miriam2016 pic.twitter.com/fkMkjUiWiW

— Kristian F. Javier (@kefjavier) October 2, 2016

Miriam, dubbed the “Iron lady of Asia" , was one of the most endearing figures in Philippine politics, pop culture and academia. She was also one of the leaders well-loved by youth for her jokes as well as her inspirational remarks in speeches.

The late senator was best-known for her years of service in the Senate. She was first elected senator in 1995.

During the funeral mass, Miriam’s sister, Len Defensor, thanked doctors and medical personnel who helped her sister. She also extended gratitude to Miriam’s supporters, including the youth. —With reports from Kristian Javier