The intolerable political and economic crisis and our utter lack of faith in those who pretend to be our leaders continue to compel Filipinos to search for new leaders. We want progressive and patriotic leaders who can stand up for our country and in turn inspire us to unity towards common nation-building efforts.

As the search for such leaders continue, it is profitable for us to know that we’ve had such leaders. One such leader was the late Sen. Lorenzo M. Tañada.

The multisectoral alliance Bayan today joined the Tañada family in a program commemorating the late senator’s birthday. Read Bayan’s tribute here, important excerpts of which I am quoting below:

Present-day politicians should emulate the brilliant example of Ka Tanny and his brand of nationalism and tireless engagement in the people’s anti-fascist and anti-imperialist struggle.

Under present conditions of ever worsening poverty and inequality brought by a corrupt government that is subservient to US economic, military and geo-political interests, we celebrate Ka Tanny’s life by rallying Bayan and the Filipino people to continue his battle. Present-day activists, especially the youth, can gain inspiration from Ka Tanny who loved and served the people to his very last breath.

Prof. Jose Maria Sison also wrote a statement remembering him. From Utrecht, Prof. Sison wrote:

Senator Tañada had a high standard of morality for both private life and public service. He espoused and practised the clean and honest service to the people which he required of all government officials. As senator, he first became well known as a crusader against graft and corruption. We are obliged by his teachings and example to fight uncompromisingly against a regime that has prolonged itself through electoral fraud and whose corruption knows no limits.

I hope someone like Tañada rises up among our people real soon.

Picture courtesy of Pi Sigma.