# Nelson Legacion

Nelson Suarez Legacion (born March 1, 1968) is a Filipino politician and lawyer who serves as the incumbent mayor of Naga, Camarines Sur in the Philippines. He is a member of the Liberal Party and previously served as City Legal Officer under former Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, City Councilor, and Vice Mayor.

## 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.

## Career
### Early career

After passing the bar, Legacion served as the City Legal Officer of Naga City Local Government Unit under then-Mayor Jesse Robredo. He later entered local politics and served as City Councilor (2007–2013) and Vice Mayor (2013).

### Mayoralty

As mayor of Naga City, Legacion has been involved in various local initiatives and issues:
In August 2023, he requested Malacañang to declare August 18 as a special non-working day to commemorate Jesse Robredo's death anniversary, though the request was denied due to existing legislation (RA 10699) already designating it as a special working holiday.
In March 2023, he acknowledged jeepney cooperatives in the city for supporting the jeepney modernization program and not participating in a weeklong strike.
In July 2024, he issued a public warning about fraudulent social media accounts using his name and photo to offer fake job opportunities. Legacion clarified that he maintains only two official Facebook accounts and does not engage in any financial transactions or job promises online.

### 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.
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.
On October 8, 2024, Naga City Mayor Nelson S. 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 Escueta-Legacion, 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.

## 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.
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.

## Personal life

Legacion is married to Marion Eloisa Escueta, who is also a lawyer. They have four children: Nathaniel Emil, Neal Emerson, Nadine Eina, and Nepthali Eman.