Nelson Suarez Legacion is a Filipino politician and lawyer who serves as the incumbent mayor of Naga, Camarines Sur in the Philippines. He is a member of the Liberal Party and previously served as city legal officer under former interior secretary Jesse Robredo, city councilor (2007–2013), and vice mayor (2013).[1][2]
Nelson "Son" Legacion | |
|---|---|
| Mayor of Naga City, Camarines Sur | |
| In office July 1, 2019 – Incumbent | |
| Preceded by | John G. Bongat |
| Vice Mayor of Naga City, Camarines Sur | |
| In office July 1, 2013 – June 30, 2019 | |
| Preceded by | Cecilia Veluz-De Asis |
| Succeeded by | Gabriel H. Bordado Jr. |
| Naga City Councilor | |
| In office July 1, 2007 – June 30, 2013 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Nelson Suarez Legacion Buhi, Camarines Sur, Philippines |
| Political party | Lakas–CMD (2024–present) |
| Other political affiliations | Liberal Party (until 2024) |
| Spouse | Marion Eloisa Escueta |
| Children | 4 |
| Residence(s) | Naga City, Philippines |
| Alma mater | Saint Anthony Mary Claret College (AB) University of Nueva Caceres (LLB) |
| Occupation | Lawyer |
| Profession | Lawyer, Politician |
Early life and education
editLegacion was born in Buhi, Camarines Sur, Philippines. He completed his AB Philosophy degree at Saint Anthony Mary Claret College and later earned his Bachelor of Laws from the University of Nueva Caceres. He passed the Philippine Bar Examination in 1995.[3]
Career
editEarly career
editAfter passing the bar, Legacion served as the City Legal Officer of Naga City Local Government Unit under then-Mayor Jesse Robredo. He later entered local politics and served as City Councilor (2007–2013) and Vice Mayor (2013).[4]
Mayoralty
editAs mayor of Naga City, Legacion has been involved in various local initiatives and issues:
In August 2023, he requested Malacañang to declare August 18 as a special non-working day to commemorate Jesse Robredo's death anniversary, though the request was denied due to existing legislation (RA 10699) already designating it as a special working holiday.[5]
In March 2023, he acknowledged jeepney cooperatives in the city for supporting the jeepney modernization program and not participating in a weeklong strike.[6]
In July 2024, he issued a public warning about fraudulent social media accounts using his name and photo to offer fake job opportunities. Legacion clarified that he maintains only two official Facebook accounts and does not engage in any financial transactions or job promises online.[7]
Future political plans
editIn early 2024, the founder of the Bikoleni Movement and Kusog Bikolandia party, known for supporting former vice president Leni Robredo's (widow of Jesse) 2022 presidential bid, denied rumors of running for mayor in the 2025 Naga City elections. He stated that his focus remained on his business ventures.[8]
In June 2024, Legacion expressed openness to running for Congress representing the Camarines Sur's 3rd congressional district in the 2025 elections, though he indicated a personal preference to continue serving as mayor to complete ongoing programs and projects. Local leaders outside the city have expressed support for his potential congressional bid.[9]
On October 8, 2024, Naga City Mayor Nelson S. Legacion filed his certificate of candidacy for Camarines Sur's 3rd District congressional seat at the Provincial Capitol Complex. Accompanied by his wife, Marion Eloisa Escueta-Legacion, and supporters, he emphasized fighting political dynasties and amending laws allowing governors to suspend mayors. Running under Lakas–CMD, Legacion highlighted support from allies committed to development, particularly for marginalized sectors.[10]
Legal matters
editIn 2024, a cyber libel complaint filed by Legacion against a private individual was dismissed by the Naga City Prosecutor's Office due to insufficient evidence.[11]
In May 2024, he and former mayor John Bongat faced charges before the ombudsman regarding a lease agreement between the local government and Lumver Consolidated Complex Development Corporation.[12]
Personal life
editLegacion is married to Marion Eloisa Escueta, who is also a lawyer. They have four children: Nathaniel Emil, Neal Emerson, Nadine Eina, and Nepthali Eman.[13]
References
edit- ^ "Bantay Bayan 2019". Retrieved November 25, 2024.
- ^ Bob Ursua (April 22, 2021). "Hon. Nelson S. Legacion".
- ^ Bob Ursua (April 22, 2021). "Hon. Nelson S. Legacion".
- ^ "Bantay Bayan 2019". Retrieved November 25, 2024.
- ^ "Palace denies request to declare 'Jesse Robredo Day' special non-working day". POLITIKO. August 18, 2023.
- ^ Connie Calipay (March 6, 2023). "Naga mayor thanks jeepney coops for not joining transport strike".
- ^ Jessica Calinog (July 17, 2024). "Naga City mayor warns vs. fake social media account".
- ^ Rhaydz Barcia (January 13, 2024). "Founder of pro-Robredo group denies positioning for Naga's mayoral race".
- ^ "Alkalde ng Naga, posibleng tumakbo bilang Congressman sa 2025". BNFM Naga. June 11, 2024.
- ^ Jason B. Neola (October 8, 2024). "For 3rd District Congressional Seat: Legacion files candidacy".
- ^ Jan Escosio (January 13, 2024). "Cyber libel complaint ng Naga City mayor vs ex-VP Leni supporter, ibinasura".
- ^ "Naga City Mayor Legacion at Ex- Mayor Bongat, kinasuhan sa Ombudsman". BNFM Naga. May 17, 2024.
- ^ Bob Ursua (April 22, 2021). "Hon. Nelson S. Legacion".