• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Senator Francis Escudero described ex-Speaker Jose De Venecia Jr. as a towering figure in Philippine politics who will be remembered by the Filipino people for his vision, diplomacy, and dedication to public service.
The death of Venecia on Tuesday was confirmed by his family. He was 89 years old.
As a five-term Speaker, Escudero recalled that De Venecia helped shape the nation’s democratic institutions and championed peace, dialogue, and cooperation both at home and abroad.
His voice carried weight not only in Congress but across Asia and the global stage, Escudero said in a statement.
During his tenure as Senate President, the Bicolano senator said they passed Senate Resolution No. 1142 to honor De Venecia’s life and legacy.
It was a formal recognition of his enduring contributions to our society for his leadership in governance, his pioneering role in international diplomacy, and his steadfast commitment to the Filipino people, Escudero added.
In a statement, the De Venecia family announced his passing “with heavy hearts,” remembering him as a “beloved husband, father, grandfather, and patriarch who devoted more than six decades to public service as a journalist, diplomat, entrepreneur, legislator, and global advocate for peace.”
“As we mourn his passing, we give thanks for a life that helped shape the Philippine Republic and for a legacy that endures in our laws, our institutions, and our continuing pursuit of peace,” the family said.
He is survived by his wife, Pangasinan Fourth District Representative Gina de Venecia, their children Vivian and Dennis Garcia; Joey and Karen de Venecia; Sandra and Mark Haner; Leslie Norton; Carissa and Juju Evangelista; Philip Cruz; their son, former Rep. Christopher de Venecia, and the memory of their late child, KC de Venecia, along with grandchildren and extended family.
Recalling his early years as a neophyte in the House of Representatives, Escudero said Speaker de Venecia, who was a fatherly figure to him, guided younger legislators with patience and wisdom, offering counsel that was both practical and inspiring.
His mentorship, the senator added, reflected his belief that leadership meant 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, Escudero stressed.*
