MANILA — Santanina Tilla Rasul, the first Muslim Filipina senator, passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 94, the Senate announced.
In a statement, Senate spokesperson Arnel Jose Bañas expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Rasul as a “trailblazer, legislator, educator, and beloved mother and grandmother.”
Rasul served as a senator in two terms, from 1987 to 1992 and 1992 to 1995. Throughout her career in the Senate, she authored eight significant laws, focusing on civil service, women’s rights, and education.
Among the key laws she championed were Republic Act 6850, which granted civil service eligibility to government employees with at least seven years of service, and Republic Act 6949, which declared March 8 as National Women’s Day.
She also spearheaded R.A. 7192, which dismantled gender discrimination in government agencies, opened the doors of the Philippine Military Academy to women, and allocated funds for women’s programs.
Another key achievement was R.A. 7168, which upgraded the Philippine Normal College to a university, now known as the Philippine Normal University.
The Senate paid tribute to Rasul’s lifelong commitment to public service, highlighting her efforts to empower women and marginalized communities, particularly Filipino Muslims.
“Her Senate career was marked by her steadfast commitment to advancing civil service and education reforms, promoting women’s and minority rights, and fostering peace in her homeland,” the statement read.
After leaving the Senate, Rasul continued to advocate for education, particularly through the Magbassa Kita Foundation, an organization dedicated to combating illiteracy.
Her legacy extends beyond her legislative work. Born in Siasi, Sulu, Rasul was a public school teacher in her hometown and Jolo from 1952 to 1957 before transitioning to government service.
She became a technical assistant to the Office of the President from 1963 to 1964 and was later appointed as a commissioner representing Muslims and other ethnic minorities from 1978 to 1987.
In 1986, she became a member of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports.
Rasul also served as an honorary ambassador for UNESCO during the International Literacy Year in 1990, reflecting her global commitment to education.
She was married to the late Ambassador Abraham Rasul Sr., with whom she had six children.
In place of flowers, the family requested that donations be made to the Magbassa Kita Foundation, Inc., a cause close to Rasul’s heart.
Rasul’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life devoted to public service, education, and the empowerment of women and marginalized communities.
Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations striving for equality and peace.