In a multi-party system such as what we have in the Philippines, it is often challenging to introduce initiatives that will be supported by the majority. Such is the case in the House of Representatives, where more than 300 legislators are aligned with different parties.
But there is one visionary leader who was able to unite the House under a “rainbow coalition” that helped stabilize the country during the post-Martial Law era. That man is former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
JDV served as congressman for seven terms, five of which he was the House Speaker. He was the architect of many groundbreaking legislation that paved the way for the country’s growth and development. His political acumen was instrumental in the smooth passage of more than 200 economic, political, and social reform laws during the administration of former President Fidel V. Ramos.
All his invaluable contributions to the nation and beyond were highlighted at the Senate, whose members unanimously passed a resolution honoring JDV last Aug. 28, 2024.
Senate Resolution 1142, which was principally sponsored by Senator Loren Legarda, and co-sponsored by several other senators, underscored JDV’s achievements as a legislator and a statesman not only in the Philippines but even in the international community.
Senate President Francis Escudero also emphasized the influence of JDV on many of the nation’s present leaders, highlighting that at least a third of the current members of the Senate have worked with JDV in the House of Representatives and look up to him as their mentor.
One of the very important initiatives he conceived is the Dollar Remittance Program for Filipino overseas workers, which now raises more than $30 billion annually for the Philippines. Among the landmark laws that he championed include the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, the law creating the Central Bank of the Philippines, and the Military Bases Conversion Law—which paved the way for the conversion of former military bases into economic zones and free ports that are not only sources of income and employment, but also major contributors to economic growth.
He also served as a diplomat, particularly during a period of the Vietnam War when he was the Minister and Economic and Press Counselor of the Philippine Embassy in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh), Vietnam.
JDV is also a tireless peacemaker who mediated with secessionists and communists groups, which led to peace agreements and amnesty programs. He initiated the Interfaith Dialogue in the United Nations that aims to help heal politico-religious conflicts around the world.
His achievements go beyond our shores, as he has also introduced remarkable initiatives in the international community, especially in Asia. He is a staunch advocate for Asian integration. He founded and chaired several international organizations, including the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP), the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA), the Centrist Asia Pacific Democrats International (CAPDI), and the Asian Peace and Reconciliation Council (APRC).
He also proposed the Debt-for-Equity Program that aims to empower the poorest and heavily indebted debtor-countries to divert a percentage of their debt-service payments into anti-poverty programs, as well as for climate change projects.
JDV is one remarkable statesman, a leader whose passion for service goes beyond our nation, as he also envisions a better world for all. His influence is far-reaching and our country is blessed to have a leader like him whose legacy is truly impactful and inspiring.
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