Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III extolled the late former Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile for his "unmatched dedication" to serving the nation during the House of Representatives' final tribute to him Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 25.

Held within the plenary hall, the tribute included solemn ceremonies, musical tributes, and the adoption of two House resolutions extending the chamber’s profound condolences and highest honor to "Manong Johnny".

In his eulogy, Dy described Enrile as a pillar of government and a patriot who helped steer the country through some of its most defining moments.

“Sa araw na ito, ginagawaran natin ng pinakamataas na pagkilala ang isang natatanging indibidwal na ang pangalan ay kaakibat ng tapang, paninindigan, at di-matutumbasang dedikasyon sa paglilingkod sa Inang Bayan. Isang haligi ng pambansang pamahalaan. Siya si Juan Ponce Enrile, o mas kilala natin bilang si ‘Manong Johnny', isang katangi-tanging statesman, batikang mambabatas, at higit sa lahat, tunay na Pilipino,” Dy said.

(On this day, we confer the highest recognition on an exceptional individual whose name is synonymous with courage, conviction, and unmatched dedication to serving the Motherland. A pillar of the national government. He is Juan Ponce Enrile, or as we better know him, ‘Manong Johnny', a distinguished statesman, seasoned legislator, and above all, a true Filipino.)

The Isabela 6th district congressman said Enrile’s leadership—as senator, justice secretary, defense minister, presidential legal counsel, and member of the House—left an enduring imprint on Philippine governance.

“Habang iginagawad natin ang parangal sa natatanging si ‘Manong Johnny', hindi lamang ang kanyang mga nagawa at tagumpay ang ating pinapupurihan, kundi higit pa rito, ang kanyang matibay at taos-pusong paglilingkod sa sambayanang Pilipino,” he added.

(As we bestow this honor upon the remarkable ‘Manong Johnny', we are not only praising his accomplishments and successes, but more than that, his steadfast and wholehearted service to the Filipino people.)

Dy expressed hope that Enrile’s legacy will continue to shape future leaders, inspiring young Filipinos to serve with integrity, uphold their principles, fight for justice, and understand that true leadership is rooted in responsibility, not power.

Former Deputy Speaker Raul Daza also delivered a eulogy at the House tribute.

During the ceremony, the House presented legislative memorabilia to the Enrile family as a symbol of gratitude for his distinguished service, including two resolutions adopted by the chamber.

These were House Resolution (HR) Nos.26 and 27, which expressed the chamber’s profound condolences and conveyed its highest commendation for Enrile’s statesmanship and lifetime of public service, respectively.

Enrile’s daughter, Katrina, delivered the family’s message of gratitude, which was followed by an audiovisual presentation prepared by the House recounting the statesman’s life and contributions.

Musical renditions of “Usahay” and “Besame Mucho,” two of Enrile’s favorite songs, were also featured during the rites.

As the ceremony drew to a close, Dy said the nation will remember Enrile not only for the roles he held but for his steadfast commitment to serving the Filipino people.

“His legacy, forged through a lifetime of dedicated and faithful service, shall remain firmly etched in the memory of the nation and in the hearts of those he served and inspired...His contributions will endure as a guiding testament to his unwavering commitment to public service," the Speaker said.

Enrile passed away on Nov. 13 at the age of 101.