A dedicated government official, a veteran election lawyer, and a worthy rival.
This was how former Commission on Election (Comelec) chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. was remembered by his colleagues and employees, who mourned his passing on Tuesday morning at the age of 80.
Comelec achievements
In a statement, Comelec described Brillantes as “a staunch defender of the integrity” of the poll body having served as its chairman from Jan. 2011 to Feb. 2015.
During his term, Brillantes led the successful conduct of the 2013 National and Local Elections as well as introducing the Local Source Code Review to make the automated elections more transparent to the public.
He also known for empowering Comelec’s Campaign Finance Office to ensure candidates are held accountable for their campaign spending and also going after “those who sought to undermine public confidence in the electoral system.”
“Within the Comelec, Chairman Brillantes kept a strict eye out for malfeasance and – with neither fear nor favor – cleaned house,” Comelec said.
Friendly rivalry
For his part, election lawyer Romulo Macalintal, who was friend and at times a rival of Brillantes, said the former poll chief was “dedicated law practitioner and a competent public official.”
He recalled how they both started as election lawyers in 1984 and have since become good friends.
“I remember those days when we would heatedly argue against each other defending our respective clients at the Comelec. But after the hearing, we would enjoy each other’s company in our favorite coffee shop,” Macalintal said.
Right choice
He respected Brillante’s knowledge of election law so much thus he was the one who recommended him to former President Benigno Aquino III to be appointed as the new chairman of Comelec.
“I was proven right. He was the most knowledgeable and competent Comelec Chairman to ever handle and run the poll body under an automated election system,” Macalintal said.
Macalintal also knew Brillantes, whom he fondly called as “Boy” as true friend as well as a caring grandfather.
“I cannot imagine that I already lost my close and wonderful friend. But then I pray that he is now rested in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ,” Macalintal said.
Official confirmation
On Tuesday, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez confirmed the passing of former Chairperson Sixto S. Brillantes Jr., at little pass 11 am that day.
Brillantes was intubated last July at the Medical Center Manila after being infected with coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
Malacañang also grieved his death and recognized his contribution to the country.
“We condoled with the family of chair Brillantes. He served the nation well when he was chairman of the Comelec,” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said during an online briefing on Tuesday.
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