Senators from across party lines on Tuesday paid tribute to former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., remembering him as a mentor, consensus-builder, and statesman whose leadership shaped Philippine politics and inspired generations of public servants.
“Sa kanya ko talaga natutunan kung paano maging consensus builder. Yung leadership style ko, malaking bahagi niyan ay galing sa kanya,” said Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri, recalling his years under de Venecia in Lakas-CMD and in Congress.
Senator Loren Legarda credited de Venecia for launching her political career in 1997, calling him a “global Filipino” and a statesman ahead of his time.
“What I will remember most is not his titles, but the sincere words of encouragement, the genuine guidance, and the way he made you feel that your work and your voice mattered,” she said.
Senator Chiz Escudero highlighted de Venecia’s role in strengthening democratic institutions and elevating the Philippines’ international standing.
Senate Deputy Minority Leader Joel Villanueva praised him as a “parliamentarian par excellence,” noting his magnanimity toward minority lawmakers.
All senators extended condolences to de Venecia’s wife, Pangasinan 4th District Representative Gina de Venecia, and their family, emphasizing that his legacy endures through the leaders he mentored and the values of dialogue, consensus, and service he championed.