With profound sadness, we join our nation in mourning the passing of two remarkable men, two steadfast patriots, and two dear old friends who journeyed with us through the turbulent but transformative years of Philippine politics and nation-building — former Congressman Eduardo “Ed” Ermita of Batangas and former Congressman Felicito “Tong” Payumo of Bataan.

Both were my colleagues in the House of Representatives — men of intellect, integrity, and quiet courage — and in their own distinct ways, each left a deep imprint on our national life.

We remember Ed Ermita not only as a trusted ally in Congress, but also as a soldier-statesman whose calm wisdom and sense of duty guided our country during some of its most delicate moments of transition. We worked closely together, not only on the floor of the House, but in the long and difficult journey toward peace and national reconciliation during the Ramos years.

Ed was deeply involved in our efforts to bring to the table the military rebels of the RAM-SFP-YOU, the Communist insurgents of the CPP-NPA-NDF, and the Muslim secessionists of the MNLF and the MILF. Together, we believed that genuine peace could never be achieved by force of arms alone, but only through dialogue, trust, and the courage to forgive.

We still remember our long discussions in the corridors of Congress and in quiet corners of Malacañang — moments when Ed, with his characteristic calm and soldierly composure, would explain the importance of dismantling the barriers to peace, including the repeal of the old Anti-Subversion Law, which he shepherded so ably through the House. That single legislative act, courageous and controversial at the time, was critical in bringing our former adversaries out of the underground and into the democratic mainstream. It was a turning point that helped stabilize our fragile democracy and allowed the peace process to move forward with credibility and compassion.

Ed Ermita’s life was one of service — to the nation, to his province, to his comrades, and to the cause of peace. He was, in every sense, a patriot who believed that reconciliation, not retribution, was the higher calling of leadership.

As for Tong Payumo, our friendship with him spanned many years, both in Congress and beyond it. Tong was one of the finest minds of our generation, a visionary who saw opportunity where others saw only difficulty. We co-authored together two landmark pieces of legislation that continue to shape our nation’s economy— the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law and the Philippine Economic Zone Law.

The BOT Law, which we worked on side by side, opened the door for private sector participation in public infrastructure — highways, airports, power plants, among others — and laid the foundation for today’s successful public-private partnership (PPP) programs that have propelled national development.

The Philippine Economic Zone Law, on the other hand, encouraged foreign investments by creating special economic zones across the country, generating employment, promoting exports, and stimulating regional growth. It empowered provinces and municipalities beyond Metro Manila to become centers of progress, spreading the fruits of development to the countryside.

Beyond Congress, Tong and we were also both members of the Rotary Club of Manila, where we shared the same ideals of service above self. We recall our countless fellowships, our discussions on economic and political reform, and our laughter over good food and good stories. Tong’s sharp mind and quiet dignity made him a true gentleman of public service.

Today, as we remember Ed and Tong — two men of principle, two friends of long standing — we are reminded of the golden years of the House, when public service was marked by camaraderie, civility, and a shared sense of purpose. They were not just colleagues in government, they were kindred souls who believed that politics, at its best, is an act of hope, a means to make our nation whole.

To their families, we extend our deepest condolences. Know that they served their country well and that their legacy of courage, integrity, and vision will endure in the hearts of those who knew them.

Farewell, dear friends. Thank you for your friendship, your loyalty, and your service to our beloved Philippines. Your lives were a gift to our nation — and to us, they were a blessing.