President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed his condolences to the family of former Senator Santanina “Nina” T. Rasul, who passed away on 28 November at the age of 94.

“It is with profound sadness that I extend my condolences on the passing of Senator Santanina ‘Nina’ T. Rasul,” Marcos said. “This is a loss deeply felt not only by your family but by the entire Filipino nation.”

Rasul served as a senator from 1987 to 1995. She was the first and only Muslim woman to serve in the upper chamber of Congress to date. The former lawmaker’s legislative agenda focused on women’s rights, Muslim affairs, family and gender equality.

Marcos described Rasul as a “trailblazer for equality and empowerment.”

“Her contributions were not just historic — they were transformative. She championed the rights of marginalized communities, opened doors for women in the military, and inspired countless Filipinos, especially those from underrepresented sectors, to believe in their potential,” he said.

He also noted the kind of woman Rasul was.

“She was a woman of wisdom, grace, and unshakable integrity. Her impact was felt not only within the halls of government but in the lives of the people she so selflessly served,” Marcos added.

Marcos highlighted the extraordinary life and legacy that Senator Rasul left behind.