Who is Lucas Bersamin? A Life of Service in the Philippines

Lucas Purugganan Bersamin is a respected Filipino lawyer and public servant. He has held many important roles in the Philippine government. His career spans over four decades, marked by dedication and integrity.

Early Life and Education

Lucas Bersamin was born on October 18, 1949, in Bangued, Abra. He finished elementary school as valedictorian at Colegio del Sagrado Corazon in 1961. He completed high school at Saint Joseph Seminary in 1965. He studied political science at the University of the Philippines Diliman and earned his law degree from the University of the East in 1973. That same year, he placed 9th in the Philippine Bar Examinations .

Legal and Judicial Career

Bersamin began his legal career in private practice from 1974 to 1986. He was appointed as a trial court judge in Quezon City by President Corazon Aquino in 1986. In 2003, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo appointed him to the Court of Appeals. In 2009, he became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Later, in 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte appointed him as the 25th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He served until his retirement in 2019 .

Service Under President Marcos Jr.

In September 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Bersamin as the Executive Secretary. This role is often called the “Little President” because of its influence. He served until May 22, 2025, when he resigned along with other Cabinet members. This was part of a government reset after mid-term election setbacks .

Family and Personal Life

Lucas Bersamin is married to Aurora A. Bagares, a businesswoman. They have three children: Pia Cristina, Luis Isidro, and Lucas Riel Jr. . His family has a history of public service. His brother, Luis “Chito” Bersamin Jr., was a congressman but was tragically killed in 2006. Another brother, Eustaquio “Takit” Bersamin, served as governor of Abra .

Relationship with the Duterte Administration

Bersamin’s career intersected with former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. Duterte appointed him as Chief Justice in 2018 and later as Chairman of the Government Service Insurance System in 2020. As Executive Secretary, Bersamin defended the administration’s stance on executive privilege during investigations related to Duterte .

Legacy

Lucas Bersamin’s career reflects a commitment to justice and public service. From his early days as a lawyer to his role as Chief Justice and Executive Secretary, he has been a key figure in the Philippine government. His contributions continue to influence the country’s legal and political landscape.