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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Arroyo gives heartfelt farewell to longtime ally De Venecia, calls him an icon

Arroyo gives heartfelt farewell to longtime ally De Venecia, calls him an icon

Published Feb 10, 2026 11:58 pm

At A Glance

  • Former president and incumbent Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave the most glowing tribute yet to the late former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., as her insights served as a virtual wreath for her longtime political ally.
Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (left), former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. (Facebook)
Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (left), former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. (Facebook)


Former president and incumbent Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave the most glowing tribute yet to the late former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., as her insights served as a virtual wreath for her longtime political ally.
"I mourn the passing of Jose de Venecia Jr. not only as a former Speaker of the House, but as a longtime colleague and partner in public service," Macapagal-Arroyo wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday night, Feb. 10.
The congresswoman recalled that in 1998, she ran as the vice presidential running mate of then-presidential bet De Venecia.
"In years that followed, he served as Speaker for most of the time that I was President. During those years, we worked closely—sometimes amid difficult national choices—but always with a shared commitment to democratic institutions, political stability, and the country’s long-term interests," Macapagal-Arroyo said.
Her admiration for De Venecia's work as leader of the legislative chamber was very evident in her words.
"As Speaker, he understood the central role of Congress in governance and believed deeply in dialogue, coalition-building, and consensus. He brought to public life a rare combination of political skill, institutional memory, and international perspective," the ex-president shared.
"I extend my deepest condolences to Gina and their family. The Philippines has lost an iconic political figure whose influence on our political life will be felt for generations. May he rest in peace," Macapagal-Arroyo added of her fellow emeritus official over at the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party.
De Venecia died on Tuesday at the age of 89.
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