The Senate on Wednesday, August 28 adopted the resolution honoring the life and legacy of former House speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
Senator Loren Legarda said de Venecia, also known as JDV, is a “towering figure in Philippine politics and governance.”
“Hailing from Dagupan City, JDV's journey in public service is marked by steadfast dedication, results-driven leadership, and a relentless pursuit of peace and lasting progress,” Legarda said during her sponsorship speech on Senate Resolution No. 1142.
“Serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives for an unprecedented five terms in the post-war Philippine Congress, he became a stalwart of legislative leadership and political acumen,” she said.
Legarda noted that de Venecia’s coalition-building efforts during the post-Martial Law era were instrumental in promoting unity and stability.
“Economic, political, and social reform laws were passed under his stewardship during President Fidel V. Ramos’ administration, laying the groundwork for the country’s growth,” she pointed out.
De Venecia co-founded the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) and negotiated with various factions, includng secessionists and insurgents, paving the way for lasting peace agreements and amnesty programs.
Legarda said the former House leader was instrumental to her own journey in Philippine politics. “The trust and confidence he placed in me marked a pivotal moment in my role as a public servant, and I am forever grateful for that opportunity,” she said.
She also said de Venecia’s impact also extend beyond the country’s shores, citing his diplomatic service during the Vietnam War to founding the Dollar Remittance Program, which now generates over $30-billion annually for the Philippines.
She also cited de Venecia’s role as ambassador-at-large under then President Corazon Aquino’s administration and as Special Envoy to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and for Inter-Cultural Dialogue during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. All of these actions of the former lawmaker, contributed to advancing the country’s international cooperation and dialogue.
But De Venecia’s dedication to environmental protection, she said, moved her, being a champion of climate change action: “His commitment to integating environmental interests into public policy, by urging governments and political parties to govern green, was evident during his tenure as co-chairman of the International Ecological Safety Collaborative Organization (IESCO).
“Beyond politics and diplomacy, JDV's work as a journalist and media pioneer, including co-founding the Radio Philippines Network, underscores his multifaceted work in nation-building,” she said.
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero led the Upper Chamber in personally handing over to De Venecia the resolution adopted by the Senate.
De Venecia was accompanied by his wife, Georgina “Manay Gina” De Venecia during the ceremony.