House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez urged his colleagues in government to commit themselves to honoring and living the legacy of public service of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
The Speaker made the appeal during the inauguration of the Jose de Venecia Building and Museum at the Batasan complex in Quezon City, where he paid tribute to the former Speaker’s remarkable career and contributions to the country.
Romualdez described De Venecia as “a man of great ideas” and “of profound humanity,” whose legacy serves as a guiding principle for public servants.
“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,” he said.
The Speaker noted that De Venecia’s story 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,” Romualdez 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.”
De Venecia was accompanied by his wife, former Pangasinan Rep. Maria Georgina De Venecia, and his son, incumbent Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Christopher De Venecia, during the event.
Other lawmakers, including Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez and Reps. Ramon Guico, Mark Cojuangco, Rufus Rodriguez, and Ace Barbers, also joined the Speaker in paying tribute to the former Speaker.
Romualdez highlighted De Venecia’s achievements in diplomacy, citing his efforts to champion interfaith dialogue and promote peace and understanding around the world.
“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,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker also noted that De Venecia 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,” Romualdez said. Romualdez concluded his speech by telling De Venecia,
“Mabuhay ka (Long live), 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.”
