Philippines 'lost a pillar of public service' with Enrile's passing, says Romualdez
At A Glance
- Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) President Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez said that the Philippines "lost a pillar of public service" with the passing of former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.
Former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile (left), Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez (MANILA BULLETIN, PPAB)
Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) President Leyte 1st district Rep. Martin Romualdez said that the Philippines "lost a pillar of public service" with the passing of former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.
Romualdez--in a statement Thursday night, Nov. 13 mere hours after Enrile's reported passing at the age of 101--said the long-time public servant left an imprint on major political and policy milestones spanning decades.
The former House Speaker of the 19th and 20th Congresses described the Enrile as "a figure whose discipline, sharp legal mind, and command of national issues earned him respect even from those who differed with him politically".
"The former Senate President’s presence in national debates consistently raised the level of discussion,” Romualdez said as he extolled Enrile.
Romualdez said Enrile’s legacy will continue to guide lawmakers as they confront the nation’s toughest decisions. He noted that Enrile’s work in law, governance, and legislation will continue to be part of the nation’s institutional memory.
“Enrile’s long life in public office stands as a testament to resilience and duty — qualities he said younger generations of leaders must strive to uphold,” said the head honcho of Lakas-CMD, the largest political party in the 300-plus strong House of Representatives.
As tributes pour in from across the political landscape, Romualdez encouraged reflection and unity, and said such moments underscore the need for service guided by principle and responsibility.
Enrile's passing was "felt not only in the halls of the Senate and the House of Representatives but across a country that witnessed his many roles in public life,” Romualdez said.