Ilonggos mourn loss of Ka Bel
Grief and sympathy from various sectors in Iloilo poured out on the death of militant labor leader and Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran.
Beltran died Tuesday from brain injuries after falling from the rooftop of his home in Bulacan.
"His death is a great loss to the militant labor movement which he led courageously and unwaveringly even at its trying and most difficult times," said Wennie Dubliso, spokesperson of the Kilusang Mayo Uno in Panay.
Dubliso said Beltran served as an inspiring symbol and the rallying figure of workers in their struggle for higher wages, stable jobs and better working conditions.
"He also showed that idealism, militancy and standing up and fighting for one's principles is not bounded by youthfulness but in being steadfast to beliefs," said Dubliso.
Former congressman and Iloilo Vice Gov. Rolex Suplico, who was allied with Beltran and other militant partly-list lawmaker in many issues, also expressed grief in Beltran's death.
"Rep. Beltran was the conscience of the House of Representatives. He has gone on to become the conscience of the nation. We will certainly miss him," said Suplico in a text message.
Msgr. Meliton Oso, social action director of the Jaro Archdiocese, said Beltran's passing is "a great loss for the causes of human rights, nationalism and the poor."