PEACE-MAKER On behalf of our family, we convey once again our immense gratitude to Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and his beloved wife, Tingog Partylist Representative Yedda Marie Romualdez, for the great honor and privilege of naming a building in the House of Representatives after us...
PEACE-MAKER In a world marred by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, the pursuit of peace remains a paramount objective for nations and organizations alike. In Asia, a region characterized by its diversity and dynamic political landscapes, the collaboration between regional organizations can play...
PEACE-MAKER In previous columns, we shared stories of our visits to Lebanon — first in the early 1970s, during our time as a young entrepreneur in the Middle East and North Africa, and later in 2019, where we engaged in discussions with senior leaders of parliament and of political parties...
PEACE-MAKER Last Jan. 9, 2025, the people of Dagupan City, led by the indefatigable Mayor Belen T. Fernandez, commemorated a pivotal moment in our nation’s history – the 80th anniversary of the landing of General Douglas MacArthur in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, during the final months of World...
PEACE-MAKER Hilarion “Larry” Henares Jr., who passed on last Dec. 14, 2024 at the age of 100, was a figure who towered over Philippine media and intellectual discourse for decades. Known for his acerbic wit, booming laughter, Shakesperean eloquence, unapologetic patriotism, and razor-sharp...
PEACE-MAKER As we marked our 88th birthday last Dec. 26, 2024, we found ourself reflecting on a life spent in the service of our nation and the greater cause of peace in the world. It has been 60 years since we first entered public life, a journey filled with victories and defeats, successes and...
PEACE-MAKER Our nation stands at a crossroads. We are being torn apart, not by external threats, but by internal discord. The acrimonious exchanges, heightened tensions, and political conflicts among our leaders are polarizing our country to an alarming degree. This relentless bickering is...
PEACE-MAKER The overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad has marked a pivotal moment in Syria’s tumultuous history, ending over five decades of authoritarian rule. This transition presents both profound challenges and opportunities for the Syrian people and the international community. The...
PEACE-MAKER Our wife Gina and we recently visited Bangkok, a city that holds a special place in our career as five-time Speaker of the House of Representatives and in our modest foray into parliamentary and political party diplomacy in Asia and the global community. During our trip, we met...
PEACE-MAKER Political parties are often viewed as the lifeblood of democratic governance, shaping policies and directing the future of nations. Yet, their influence extends far beyond the borders of their own countries. In an increasingly interconnected world, political parties have a vital...
PEACE-MAKER Triumphant uprisings demonstrate how ordinary citizens in the new countries are courageously claiming their civil liberties and demanding the right to decide their own destinies. “People power” liberations have in recent times taken place in the Arab world, and in both South...
PEACE-MAKER As a father who devoted many years in public office, we are proud that our son, Christopher, who is approaching the end of his third and final term as congressman, has led the transformation of the fourth district of Pangasinan as a vibrant center for arts, culture, and...