The House of Representatives joins the nation in mourning the passing of former Speaker Jose Claveria De Venecia, Jr.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III paid tribute to De Venecia as a respected statesman whose vision helped shape modern Philippine democracy and whose leadership left an enduring imprint on the institution he once led.
Dy said his predecessor, who he fondly calls as ‘Manong Joe,’ led a life of public service marked by intellect, courage, and an undeniable devotion to the Filipino people. He regarded him as “a pillar of the institution and defender of democracy in times when our country was challenged by severe trials.”
“His legacy lives on in the reforms he promoted, the diplomacy he practiced, and the public servants he shaped and inspired. He taught us that serving the people is a sacred vow that demands humility, readiness, and honesty for the sake of the people,” said the House leader from Isabela.
“On behalf of the House of Representatives, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the De Venecia family and to all those who were shaped by his wisdom and example,” Dy added.
Lawmakers from the upper chamber also paid tribute to the former House Speaker, honoring his legacy as a statesman, mentor and architect of democratic institutions following news of his death.
Senator Loren Legarda said she mourns the loss of a leader she credited for encouraging her entry into national politics in 1997, recalling that his early support, guidance and confidence in her abilities helped shape her path to the Senate.
“A true statesman who was way ahead of his time, the Senate recognized his contribution to the country in a unanimously approved resolution I authored,” Legarda said.
Senator Francis Joseph ‘Chiz’ Escudero, for his part, characterized De Venecia as a dominant presence in Philippine politics whose stints as House Speaker strengthened democratic institutions and advanced peace, dialogue and cooperation domestically and internationally.
Escudero also recalled his early years in the House of Representatives when De Venecia offered guidance to younger lawmakers, saying the former Speaker’s mentorship reflected a conviction that leadership required nurturing others to serve with integrity and vision.
“We remember not only the offices he held but the ideals he embodied. May his example continue to inspire future generations to choose dialogue over division, vision over discord, and service over self-interest,” he said.
Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel ‘Migz’ Zubiri also expressed sorrow over the passing of a political figure he considered an idol and mentor, citing his experience serving under De Venecia in Lakas-CMD and in the House of Representatives during the 12th and 13th Congress.
Zubiri said his own consultative and consensus driven leadership style was largely shaped by De Venecia’s example of listening before deciding and seeking outcomes that benefit all sides.
“He was deeply admired in the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, and across other parliamentary networks abroad, because he had a rare gift for building consensus even among leaders and governments from different countries,” said Zubiri.
All three senators extended condolences to his wife, Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Gina de Venecia, and their family. They said his legacy would endure in the leaders he mentored and the institutions he helped strengthen.
