Duterte remembers Miriam as graftbuster who ‘ate death threats for breakfast’

President Rodrigo Duterte has paid tribute to Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, who died after on Thursday morning following a bout with lung cancer.

In a statement, Duterte highlighted Santiago’s stand against corruption and her respect for the rule of law.

“Senator Santiago has left a sterling career in public office. She is best remembered as a graftbuster ‘eating death threats for breakfast,’ earning her the Iron Lady of Asia,” Duterte said from Hanoi, where he is on an official visit.

“A constitutionalist, she has always been an advocate for the rule of law,” he added.

The President hoped that Santiago’s life's work would guide the country's citizens in nation-building. 

“Rest in peace, Madam Senator.  May your legacy continue to guide this nation for many years to come," Duterte bid his friend farewell.

Duriam

While Duterte lashed out at his opponents during the last presidential campaign, he showed a different side of himself when he was with Santiago.

On the third presidential debate, Duterte showered Santiago with praises instead of asking her hard questions.

“Ma’am Miriam, what can I ask of you? I am facing a woman who would become the President of the Republic of the Philippines,” Duterte then said.

Because of these friendly exchanges, the netizens at that time called the pair “Duriam.” —NB, GMA News