Who Is Panfilo Lacson? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Panfilo Lacson, born on June 1, 1948, is a prominent Filipino politician and former police officer who served as a senator of the Philippines from 2001 to 2013 and again from 2016 to 2022. Known for his rigorous stance against corruption and crime, Lacson has dramatically influenced Filipino politics over the years. As of 2025, Lacson is 76 years old. His extensive career has made him a well-respected figure in the Philippine Senate, where he has championed various legislative measures aimed at improving public safety and governance.
| Occupation | Politician |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 1, 1948 |
| Age | 77 Years |
| Birth Place | Imus, Cavite, Philippines |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Country | Philippines |
Popularity
Panfilo Lacson's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Panfilo Lacson stands tall at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) and weighs around 160 lbs (72.5 kg). His physical stats reflect an athletic build, a characteristic that stems from his background in law enforcement. Lacson has maintained his fitness, which he considers essential to his demanding political career.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Panfilo Lacson is married to his long-time partner, who has been a significant support system throughout his political journey. While details of his family life are largely kept private, he is known to have children who are pursuing their own paths in various fields. There is no public information regarding any current boyfriend or girlfriend, as Lacson appears devoted to his family and professional responsibilities.
His mother, Maxima, a market vendor, was a disciplinarian who instilled distinctions between right and wrong with her children. His father, Buenaventura, was a jeepney driver whose experiences with "kotong cops" (extortionist policemen) eventually inspired him to fight extortion and other forms of corruption.
In a post on X/Twitter in May 2024, Lacson also said he got his "discipline, integrity and survival instinct" from his mother.
Net Worth and Salary
Panfilo Lacson's net worth is estimated to be around $5 million as of 2025. His wealth primarily stems from his years in public service, investments, and various business ventures. As a senator, Lacson's salary was in line with the standard compensation for high-ranking officials in the Philippines, complemented by allowances and other benefits associated with his position.
American historian Alfred W. McCoy claimed in his 1999 book Closer Than Brothers that Lacson was among those in MISG who tortured prisoners during martial law in the 1970s, which Lacson has vehemently denied.
A court case filed in 1983 by alleged martial law torture victims against Lacson and other military officers was closed by 2012 when the Supreme Court upheld the Court of Appeal's 2003 ruling that reversed the Quezon City Regional Trial Court's order for the military officers to pay damages to their alleged victims due to the decision lacking "proc
edural due process".
Career, Business and Investments
Lacson's career spans decades, beginning as a police officer before transitioning into politics. After serving as the Chief of the Philippine National Police, he entered political life, where he made significant contributions during his tenure as a senator. Beyond politics, Lacson has invested in various businesses, focusing on sectors that promote national development. His strategic investments reflect his commitment to economic growth and civic improvement in the Philippines.
Lacson made another attempt for the presidency of the Philippines during the 2022 Philippine presidential election, where he placed fifth, losing to Bongbong Marcos. After the election, Lacson said he would contribute to food security through an agri-aqua business.
Social Network
Panfilo Lacson maintains an active presence on social media. His Twitter and Facebook accounts provide platforms for engaging with the public and sharing his views on pressing political issues. He uses these channels to connect with constituents, promote his initiatives, and express his opinions on national matters.
During his tenure as the chief of the PNP, he was known for instituting various reforms within the organization. Despite some controversies, his high approval rating and high-profile anti-corruption campaigns were key to his Senate bid in 2001, where he won and placed tenth in the elections.
In January 2001, Lacson's withdrawal of police support for President Joseph Estrada was critical to Estrada's ouster in EDSA II. However, after Estrada was arrested on April 25, 2001, Lacson was among the politicians who spoke against his removal from office at pro-Estrada rallies that preceded the May 1 riots near Malacañang Palace.
He ran for the presidency in 2004 but lost, though he continued to serve as senator until 2007. He won another six-year term in 2007.
Education
Panfilo Lacson holds a degree in Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the Philippine College of Criminology. His educational background laid the foundation for his career in law enforcement, ensuring he possessed the necessary knowledge and skills to lead in both police work and legislative processes.
He finished grade school at the Bayan Luma Elementary School in 1960 and high school at the Imus Institute in 1964. While Lacson initially wanted to be an agent of the National Bureau of Investigation, he was invited by a classmate to take the entrance exams at the Philippine Military Academy. Lacson passed but the classmate who invited him did not.
