Defensor Santiago Quotes & Sayings

I shall be honored to go to jail. Under a dictatorship, the detention cell is a place of honor. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

A true teacher does not terrorize ignorant students, because a true teacher knows that it is his job to cure ignorance. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

I eat death threats for breakfast! — Miriam Defensor Santiago

When someone told me, 'Ang ganda mo' I answered 'Sana ikaw rin.' — Miriam Defensor Santiago

I will jump headfirst from a helicopter in Luneta if Estrada gets removed from power — Miriam Defensor Santiago

A smart wife is one who makes sure she spends so much that her husband can't afford another woman. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

In my approaching old age, I am now supposed to share with you what life has taught me, and in the end to encapsulate for you what is the meaning of life. From where I am now, I find that these conundrums are easily answered. First, life teaches us that, whether we perceive it as predestined or as random, it is beyond any person's control. Second, there is no template for the meaning of life. Instead, the meaning of life is what you choose to make it mean. In making your choice, when you reach my age, your journey becomes an affirmation of the warning that life is a consequence of our moral choices. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

In a corrupt country, if you want to succeed in politics, you must keep your conscience under control. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

In my view, leadership is the courage to take risks in defense of a position that is both legal and moral. The politician who tries to become a wise guy by becoming friends to everybody - corrupt or not - is not a leader. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

Dare beyond your strength, hazard beyond your judgment, and in extremities, proceed in excellent hope. Bare the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

What is the meaning of life? This meaning is not for you to find, but for you to define. The meaning of life is found in the purposes that we pursue as we grow older. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

Handbags, I don't at all like them because they occupy my hands. My hands always have to be ready in case I need to slap somebody. — Miriam Defensor Santiago

I have no illusions about myself, about my life, about leaving a legacy, or making a mark in people's lives. We are so insignificant. We are only here for a blink. — Miriam Defensor Santiago