Lean was a pro-poor leader who should be emulated: Pangilinan

"The line of fire is a place of honor," according to Lean Alejandro.

Lean was only 27 when killed on September 19, 1987. He left behind his wife, Lidy, and daughter, Rusan.

A leader who was a driving force in the student movement, he continued work with progressive groups in the 80s.

An intellectual who combined wit in his work with the people, he did not spew expletives, but quoted Lord of the Rings and Star Wars.

He led with charisma, not by force and threats.

He was pro-poor, pro-labor, anti-fascist, not subservient to the powerful.

Lean could have chosen a comfortable life, but he chose to serve the nation.