Miriam Defensor-Santiago

Date of Birth: June 15, 1945

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: September 29, 2016

Biography

Miriam Defensor-Santiago was a prominent Filipino politician, legal expert, and judge. Born on June 15, 1945, in Iloilo City, Philippines, she was known for her sharp intellect, legal acumen, and fiery rhetoric. She earned her Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law, graduating Magna Cum Laude. She later pursued graduate studies at prestigious institutions, including the University of Michigan, Harvard University, and Cambridge University. Santiago’s political career included serving as a Senator in the Philippines for several terms, where she championed various legislative reforms, particularly in the areas of anti-corruption, education, and judicial reform. She also held the position of Secretary of Agrarian Reform and was an esteemed judge of the International Criminal Court. Her career was decorated with numerous awards and recognitions, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service, often referred to as the Asian equivalent of the Nobel Prize. Despite her battle with lung cancer, Santiago remained active in the political scene until her death on September 29, 2016.

5 Interesting Facts about Miriam Defensor-Santiago

1. Miriam Defensor-Santiago was the first Filipino and the first Asian from a developing country to be elected as a judge of the International Criminal Court.

2. She authored several books on law and governance, including “Stupid is Forever” and “Stupid is Forevermore,” which became bestsellers in the Philippines.

3. Santiago was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 1988, recognizing her efforts to combat corruption.

4. She ran for the presidency of the Philippines three times (1992, 1998, and 2016).

5. Despite her rigorous schedule and political demands, she remained an active academic, serving as a professor of law.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Miriam Defensor-Santiago

1. “I eat death threats for breakfast.”

2. “The problem with the Philippines is that we have too many laws, but too little enforcement.”

3. “Handsome men are not my cup of tea; I find them narcissistic.”

4. “I will never allow anyone to violate my integrity.”

5. “I am not afraid to die. I just don’t want to be there when it happens.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $5 million at the peak of her career, attributed to her earnings as a senator, author, and legal expert.