Santanina Tilla Rasul served as a senator from 1987 to 1992 and again from 1992 to 1995. During her time in the Senate, she authored eight laws, including significant measures that advanced civil service and women’s rights.
As chairperson of the Committee on Civil Service and Government Reorganization, and the Committee on Women and Family Relations, she played a key role in enacting Republic Act 6850, which granted civil service eligibility to government employees after seven years of service.
She also sponsored R.A. 6949, which declared March 8 as National Women’s Day, and R.A. 7192, which fought gender discrimination and opened the doors of the Philippine Military Academy to women. Additionally, she championed R.A. 7168, which elevated the Philippine Normal College to Philippine Normal University.
“The life of Senator Rasul was a testament to her tireless dedication to public service and her commitment to empowering women and marginalized communities, particularly Filipino Muslims,” the Senate statement read.
Rasul’s Senate career was defined by her unwavering commitment to civil service reforms, promoting the rights of women and minorities, and fostering peace in the Philippines.
After her legislative career, she continued her advocacy for education through the Magbassa Kita Foundation (Let Us Read), which worked to combat illiteracy.
“Senator Rasul leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations who seek equality, education, and peace,” the Senate statement concluded.
She was born in Siasi, Sulu, Rasul started her career as a public school teacher in Siasi and Jolo from 1952 to 1957 before getting a government role. From 1963 to 1964, she served as a technical assistant in the Office of the President of the Philippines.
She went on to represent Muslims and other ethnic minorities as a commissioner from 1978 to 1987, before serving on the Board of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports in 1986.
Rasul was also appointed as an honorary ambassador of UNESCO during the International Literacy Year in 1990. Rasul was married to the late Ambassador Abraham Rasul Sr. and had six children.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be made to the Magbassa Kita Foundation Inc.
Senators and other officials paid tribute to Rasul’s legacy. Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero hailed her as a leader who “broke the glass ceiling” for future generations of Filipino women. He also remembered her work in the peace talks with the Moro National Liberation Front during the administration of former President Fidel V. Ramos.
Senator Robin Padilla, a fellow Muslim, praised Rasul as a “dedicated public servant” whose efforts for women’s rights, educational reform, and peace left a lasting impact.
In the House of Representatives, Deputy Minority Leader and Sulu Rep. Mujiv Hataman honored Rasul as an “honest public servant” and a staunch advocate for education, women’s rights, and peace.
Lanao del Sur Rep. Ziaur-Rahman “Zia” Adiong also expressed his sorrow, praising her “tireless advocacy for education, women’s rights, and marginalized communities.”
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