SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez today exhorted his colleagues in government to commit themselves to honoring and living the legacy of public service of ex-Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
The leader of the 307-strong House of Representatives made the appeal as he paid tribute to the former Speaker at the inauguration of a building named after him at the Batasan complex in Quezon City, describing him as “a man of great ideas” and “of profound humanity.”
“As we dedicate the Jose de Venecia Building and Museum, let us also commit ourselves to honoring his legacy by embodying the values he holds dear: unity, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of peace and progress,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“The story of Speaker Jose de Venecia is a narrative of courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to a higher purpose. His life reminds us that true greatness lies not in the titles we hold, but in the lives we touch and the future we shape,” he said.
“To us who have been fortunate enough to walk alongside him in the halls of public service, he is not just a mentor but a towering figure of inspiration. His wisdom, tempered by decades of experience; his humility, borne out of genuine service; and his optimism, unwavering even in the face of challenges, remain etched in our hearts,” he said.
Speaker De Venecia was accompanied in the event by his wife, former Pangasinan Rep. Maria Georgina De Venecia fondly known as “Manay Gina”, and his son, incumbent Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Christopher De Venecia.
Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, along with Reps. Ramon Guico (Pangasinan, 5th District), Mark Cojuangco (Pangasinan, 2nd District), Rufus Rodriguez (Cagayan De Oro City, 2nd District), and Ace Barbers (Surigao Del Norte, 2nd District), joined Speaker Romualdez in the event to pay tribute to the former Speaker.
Relatives and friends of the De Venecia family were also present in the event.
Speaker Romualdez noted that among the country’s greatest statesmen, few names evoke as much admiration and respect as that of former Speaker de Venecia.
“To call him a visionary is an understatement, for he is not merely a leader of his time but an architect of the future, crafting ideas and building institutions that continue to shape our nation and inspire the global community,” he stressed.
The House leader pointed out that “Speaker Joe,” as he is fondly known, is a rare force in Philippine politics – one who bridges divides with the precision of a diplomat and the passion of a patriot.”
“His concept of the ‘Rainbow Coalition’ remains a masterclass in inclusive governance, a vivid testament to his belief that diversity is not a weakness but a profound strength. It was under his stewardship as Speaker of the House of Representatives that legislative milestones were achieved, creating a foundation for a stronger, more equitable nation,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez also highlighted Speaker Joe’s achievements in the field of diplomacy.
“But it is beyond the confines of the legislature where Speaker Joe’s legacy truly soars. A statesman of international renown, he champions the cause of interfaith dialogue, a crusade that has taken him to the farthest corners of the world. In his voice, the Philippines finds a herald for peace and understanding, a statesman unafraid to confront the fractures of ideology and religion with unwavering resolve. His efforts have earned him accolades and recognition, but more importantly, they have brought nations closer to the ideal of coexistence and harmony,” he said.
“Yet Speaker Joe is not only a leader of great ideas; he is a man of profound humanity. He understands the struggles of the common Filipino and has worked tirelessly to uplift their lives through bold reforms and visionary programs. His compassion is not confined to the boundaries of our nation, for he sees humanity as one family, united by shared hopes and dreams,” he said.
He told the former Speaker: “Mabuhay ka, Speaker Jose de Venecia. Your legacy is not merely remembered; it is lived, every day, by the people you serve and the nation you love. The Philippines, and indeed the world, will forever be richer for having you.”
