Sponsorship Speech of Senator Loren Legarda for Senate Resolution Honoring Former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.

Sponsorship Speech of Senator Loren Legarda for Senate Resolution Honoring Former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
28 August 2024

Mr. President, esteemed colleagues, it is with deep respect and honor that I stand before you today to sponsor a resolution paying tribute to an extraordinary man whose life and legacy have profoundly influenced our nation—Former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.

Affectionately known as JDV, he is a towering figure in Philippine politics and governance. Hailing from Dagupan City, JDV’s journey in public service is marked by steadfast dedication, results-driven leadership, and a relentless pursuit of peace and lasting progress. Serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives for an unprecedented five terms in the post-war Philippine Congress, he became a stalwart of legislative leadership and political acumen.

JDV’s coalition-building efforts during the post-Martial Law era were instrumental in promoting unity and stability. Economic, political, and social reform laws were passed under his stewardship during President Fidel V. Ramos’ administration, laying the groundwork for the country’s growth.

It is worth noting that my own political journey began under the guidance of JDV. In 1998, I won my first senatorial seat as part of his senatorial slate when he ran for President. It was JDV himself who invited me to join his team, marking my first salvo into the world of politics. The trust and confidence he placed in me marked a pivotal moment in my role as a public servant, and I am forever grateful for that opportunity.

JDV co-founded the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), which became a dominant political force in the country for many years. His efforts in negotiating with various factions, including secessionists and insurgents, paved the way for lasting peace agreements and amnesty programs.

JDV’s impact extends beyond our shores. His diplomatic service during the Vietnam War to founding the Dollar Remittance Program, which now generates over $30 billion annually for the Philippines; his role as Ambassador-at-Large under President Corazon Aquino’s administration; and as Special Envoy to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and for Inter-Cultural Dialogue during President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration – all contributed to advancing international cooperation and dialogue.
As a steward of the environment and champion of climate action, I am particularly moved by JDV’s dedication to environmental protection. His commitment to integrating environmental interests into public policy, by urging governments and political parties to govern green, was evident during his tenure as Co-Chairman of the International Ecological Safety Collaborative Organization (IESCO).

Beyond politics and diplomacy, JDV’s work as a journalist and media pioneer, including co-founding the Radio Philippines Network, underscores his multifaceted work in nation-building.
His extensive accomplishments and contributions have not gone unnoticed; JDV has been recognized with high decorations from various governments, including the prestigious French Legion of Honor, of which I am also a humble recipient. He has also received honorary doctorates from esteemed universities and has addressed prestigious forums such as the United Nations General Assembly, the UN Security Council, and the Council of Europe.

JDV’s pivotal role in Asian integration initiatives, through co-founding the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) and leading the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace (AAPP) and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Organization (AIPO), exemplifies his dedication to fostering unity and collaboration across the continent. Additionally, his creation of the Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council (APRC) underscores his commitment to peace-building and conflict resolution. He also founded and launched the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) in 2000, a forum that espouses dialogue and cooperation among political parties, both ruling and opposition and with different ideologies.

JDV’s influence also extended to global economic and political spheres. He proposed the Asian Monetary Fund and the Debt-for-Equity Program to help indebted nations invest in anti-poverty and climate change initiatives. His promotion of Interfaith Dialogue, endorsed by the United Nations, to help heal politico-religious and cultural schisms in different parts of the globe highlights his global commitment to peace, sustainability, and cultural understanding. JDV’s appointment as Co-Chairman of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP) further reinforces his importance on the world stage.

Today, as we honor Former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., we do more than remember his past achievements. We celebrate his enduring influence on our country and the international community. His legacy inspires leaders and future generations to pursue excellence in governance, diplomacy, and beyond.

I, therefore, urge my colleagues to adopt this resolution not only as a tribute to a great man but also as a reminder of the values of leadership, unity, and going the extra mile that JDV exemplified throughout his illustrious career. May we carry forward his legacy by taking the reins with leadership, coming together as one, and pitching in with dedicated service to our nation and the world.

Thank you, Mr. President.