A Filipino labor leader and founder of the Partido ng Manggagawa (Workers' Party), known for leading protests and advocating for workers' rights and social justice.
Filemon Lagman, popularly known as Ka Popoy, was a prominent revolutionary socialist and workers' leader in the Philippines who advocated for Marxism-Leninism. He was a key figure in the country's labor movement and played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape.
Lagman's passion for activism began at a young age. Growing up in Caloocan, he was an athlete and a track and field star in his high school days. However, it was during the First Quarter Storm in the 1970s that his political views started to take shape. He became a member of the Samahang Demokratiko ng Kabataan (Democratic Association of the Youth) and later went underground to do full-time organizing work in factories and urban poor communities in Metro Manila.
When martial law was declared in 1972, Lagman established the first network of the underground revolutionary movement in Navotas. He organized labor unions, launched mass mobilizations, and developed a political mass base among workers. His leadership skills and charisma earned him the respect of his comrades, and he was eventually elected as the Secretary of the Manila-Rizal Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in the mid-1970s.
Lagman's vision for a better Philippines was rooted in his belief in the principles of Marxism-Leninism. He advocated for the empowerment of the working class and the overthrow of the Marcos dictatorship. In 1978, he spearheaded the broad formation that challenged the regime in the Batasang Pambansa elections.
Lagman's radical views and methods often put him at odds with the government and other political groups. He was criticized for his involvement in the CPP, which was seen as a militant organization. Despite this, he remained committed to his cause and continued to inspire a generation of activists and socialists.
Tragically, Lagman's life was cut short when he was assassinated on February 6, 2001. His death was a blow to the labor movement and the country's progressive forces. However, his legacy lives on, and his contributions to Philippine history continue to inspire and educate new generations of Filipinos.
Lagman was born to Pedro Eduardo Lagman, Jr. and Cecilia Castellar-Lagman. He had two wives, Dodi Garduce and Bobbie Jopson, and was the brother of Albay congressman Edcel Lagman. His family life was marked by a deep commitment to public service and social activism.
Lagman's legacy extends beyond the labor movement and the socialist community. He inspired a generation of Filipinos to take an active role in shaping their country's future. His advocacy for social justice, human rights, and good governance continues to resonate in Philippine society today.
Filemon Lagman's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his principles and his people. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of activism and the importance of fighting for a better tomorrow. As we remember Ka Popoy, we are inspired to continue his work and strive for a more just and equitable society.
87 Years Old
A Filipino revolutionary and founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, known for leading the country's Maoist insurgency and advocating for national democracy and socialism.
Born in 1917
A Filipino leader who ruled with an iron fist, implementing martial law and amassing wealth, leaving a legacy of controversy and economic turmoil.
93 Years Old
First female president of the Philippines, led the People Power Revolution, and restored democracy after decades of authoritarian rule.
61 Years Old
A human rights lawyer who served as the 14th Vice President of the Philippines, advocating for social justice and democracy. She's known for her tireless efforts to promote transparency and accountability in government.
81 Years Old
The 16th President of the Philippines, known for his controversial and populist leadership style, and his war on drugs that has resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings.
66 Years Old
The 15th President of the Philippines, a key figure in the country's struggle for democracy and corruption reform, known for his efforts to rebuild the economy and promote good governance.
