Nelson Legacion
Nelson Legacion | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Official portrait, 2025 | |
| Member of the Philippine House of Representatives from Camarines Sur's 3rd District | |
| Assumed office June 30, 2025 | |
| Preceded by | Gabriel Bordado |
| 17th Mayor of Naga | |
| In office June 30, 2019 – June 30, 2025 | |
| Vice Mayor | Cecilia Veluz-De Asis |
| Preceded by | John G. Bongat |
| Succeeded by | Leni Robredo |
| Vice Mayor of Naga | |
| In office June 30, 2013 – June 30, 2019 | |
| Preceded by | Gabriel Bordado |
| Succeeded by | Cecilia Veluz-De Asis |
| Member of the Naga City Council | |
| In office June 30, 2007 – June 30, 2013 | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Nelson Salvadora Legacion March 1, 1968[1] Buhi, Camarines Sur, Philippines |
| Political party | Lakas (2024–present) |
| Other political affiliations | Liberal (2007–2024) |
| Spouse | Marion Eloisa Escueta |
| Children | 4 |
| Alma mater | Saint Anthony Mary Claret College (AB) University of Nueva Caceres (LLB) |
| Occupation | Lawyer |
| Profession |
|
Nelson Salvadora Legacion[2] (born March 1, 1968) is a Filipino lawyer and politician currently serving as the representative for Camarines Sur's 3rd district since 2025. Prior to his election to Congress, he served as mayor of Naga, Camarines Sur from 2019 to 2025 and held various other positions in local government..[3][4]
Early life and education
Legacion 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.[4]
Career
Legal career
Before entering public service, Legacion worked as a practicing lawyer. He served as the City Legal Officer of Naga City, where he was instrumental in various landmark legal cases involving the city government. Among the notable cases was his legal advocacy in securing the rightful ownership of the Naga City Hall premises after the city’s separation from the province-led Capitol Complex, a matter that involved complex property claims and political tension.
Political career
He was elected as Naga City Councilor for two consecutive terms (2007–2013), focusing on legislation to uplift underprivileged communities. Subsequently, he served as Vice Mayor (2013–2019), introducing reforms to expedite legislation and promote welfare‑oriented policies.
In 2019, Legacion was elected Mayor of Naga City and re-elected in 2022. His administration was marked by large-scale infrastructure and social service projects, including the construction of new public schools, the Naga City General Hospital (Level 1), a Super Health Center, and the Center for Safety and Resilience.[5]
He also led major urban development initiatives in four growth zones: the Sta. Cruz New Development Area, the Almeda Development Area, the Bicol Riverfront, and the Balatas Development Complex.[5]
In January 2025, he issued a public call for responsible political discourse and condemned the spread of fake news targeting city officials and candidates.[6]
Legacion assumed office as the representative for Camarines Sur’s 3rd congressional district on June 30, 2025. He is a member of the Lakas–Christian Muslim Democrats.
Future political plans
In 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.[7]
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.[8]
On October 8, 2024, 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, 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.[9]
Legal matters
In 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.[10]
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.[11]
Personal life
Legacion is married to Marion Eloisa Escueta, who is also a lawyer. They have four children.[4]
References
- ^ https://comelec.gov.ph/php-tpls-attachments/2025NLE/COC_2025NLE/COC_Local/COC_Local_R5/CAMARINES_SUR/OPES_CAMARINES_SUR/HOR_D3_LEGACION_NELSON_S.pdf
- ^ Certified List of Candidates For Congressional and Local Positions For The May 13, 2013. 2013 National, Local and BARMM Elections
- ^ "Bantay Bayan 2019". Retrieved November 25, 2024.
- ^ a b c Ursua, Bob (April 22, 2021). "Hon. Nelson S. Legacion".
- ^ a b "Legacion transforms Naga, inspires CamSur's 3rd District". Bicol Mail. 29 February 2024. Retrieved 7 August 2025.
- ^ "Legacion urges truth, accountability from candidates". City Government of Naga. 17 January 2025. Retrieved 7 August 2025.
- ^ 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.