It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Atty. Mario Niel “Bong” San Felix, a founding member of the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) and a pioneer of people’s lawyering in Panay.
Atty. Bong embraced the struggles of his clients as his own, defending their interests not only in the courtroom but in the parliament of the streets. In countless rallies, pickets and strikes, he amplified their demands and stood ready to assist victims of violent dispersals and illegal arrests.
Atty. Bong championed the rights of the marginalized peoples of Panay. Among his clients were victims of martial law, whom he assisted in securing indemnification from the estate of President Ferdinand Marcos, as well as workers exploited in service establishments, sugar mills and coal mines. He helped promote trade unionism as he fought alongside workers in legal disputes for fair wages and benefits. He fearlessly represented political prisoners in court, including NDFP Panay consultant Concha Araneta.
In 2000, Atty. Bong co-founded the Iloilo Legal Assistance Center (ILAC) together with fellow people’s lawyers in Iloilo, and had since handled public interest cases for peasants, indigenous peoples, the urban poor, women and children, and other poor and vulnerable sectors. As the ILAC chairperson since 2003, he led efforts to empower communities in standing up for their rights amid militarization, providing trainings on human rights and participating in fact-finding missions.
Despite numerous threats and relentless red-tagging, Atty. Bong never wavered. Even as his health declined, his dedication did not falter. Just before being rushed to the hospital, Atty. Bong was discussing a case that he was envisioning to be a landmark legal battle for human rights.
Atty. Bong’s life was a testament to an extraordinary journey along the less-traveled path of people’s lawyering. His legacy is one we should honor by continuing his work and unwavering commitment to justice.
Maraming salamat, Atty. Bong. Kami na ang magpapatuloy.
Maalab at taas-kamaong pagpupugay! #
Reference:
NUPL Public Information Desk
+639174316396