Edwin C. Lacierda (born 1964) is a Filipino lawyer, academic, and former government official who served as the Presidential Spokesperson of the Philippines from 2010 to 2016 under President Benigno Aquila III. He has also held leadership positions in various public and private sector organizations, and is recognized for his involvement in legal practice, public policy, and communications.
Early life and education
Edwin Lacierda was born in the Philippines in 1964. He earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of the Philippines College of Law, where he was a member of the prestigious Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity. He later pursued postgraduate studies at the Harvard Kennedy School, obtaining a Master of Public Administration (MPA). Lacierda also completed a Master of Laws (LL.M.) at the University of Michigan Law School.
Legal career
Lacierda began his professional career as a corporate lawyer, joining the law firm Lacierda & Paragas, where he eventually became a senior partner. His practice has encompassed corporate governance, securities regulation, and public‑policy advocacy. He has been a member of the Philippine Bar Association and has contributed to legal scholarship through articles and lectures on governance and administrative law.
Government service
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Presidential Spokesperson (2010–2016): Appointed by President Benigno Aquino III, Lacierda acted as the official voice of the Office of the President, delivering daily briefings, managing media relations, and articulating administration policies. He was noted for his formal communication style and for handling high‑profile issues such as the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda), the Philippines‑United States defense partnership, and anti‑corruption initiatives.
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Chairman, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) (2010–2015): Lacierda oversaw the agency responsible for regulating overseas employment of Filipino workers, implementing reforms aimed at protecting migrant workers’ rights and streamlining licensing processes.
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Member, Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) Board: During his tenure, he contributed to policy deliberations on financing infrastructure and small‑enterprise development.
Academic and public‑policy work
Following his government service, Lacierda returned to academia as a senior lecturer at the University of the Philippines College of Law, teaching courses on constitutional law and public administration. He has served as a consultant to various international organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), on governance and anti‑corruption programs. Lacierda frequently appears as a political analyst on Philippine television and contributes opinion pieces to national newspapers.
Personal life
Lacierda is married and has children. He maintains a low public profile regarding his private affairs, in keeping with customary practices among Filipino public figures.
Recognition
Lacierda has been cited in national and international media for his communication role during crises and for his advocacy for transparent governance. He has received commendations from civil‑society groups for his contributions to the protection of overseas Filipino workers.