Co-sponsorship speech of Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada on PSR 297
Honoring the life and legacy of Hon. Jose de Venecia Jr.
11 February 2026
Mr. President, my dear colleagues,
I rise today to co-sponsor Proposed Senate Resolution No. 297 honoring the life and legacy of former House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. and expressing deepest sympathies of this august chamber on the passing of a towering figure in Philippine politics—the husband of Pangasinan 4th District Congresswoman Manay Gina De Venecia.
JDV shaped the face of politics and internal security. In the years of his illustrious career, he believed in the power of dialogue, having played a pivotal role in securing a successful peace agreement with the former secessionist Moro National Liberation Front and in negotiating both a ceasefire and a peace accord with the Armed Forces Movement-Young Officers Union.
As one of the longest serving Speakers of the House of Representatives, he dedicated his life in serving our nation—for peace, prosperity, and respect even to his political rivals.
He faced formidable opponents, including my father, former President Joseph Estrada during the 1998 presidential elections. Yet what truly reflects statesmanship is that despite political differences, we regard one another as true family friends.
And that bond remains to this day.
In fact last year, both Speaker Joe and Manay Gina de Venecia visited my father at our residence in Greenhills, San Juan and I was observing both of them talk in our dining table. Nakakalungkot dahil sabi ni Speaker de Venecia sa tatay ko, “Ikaw ba ang nakalaban ko noong 1998?” Sabi ng tatay ko, “Tinalo ba kita o ikaw ang nanalo?” Medyo nakakalungkot ‘yung pagkikita nung dalawa, pag-uusap nung dalawa, dahil both are already in their advanced age hindi katulad noong 1998 when they were really very bitter rivals. But after the election day, they became best of friends.
His friendship with the Estrada family continues to remind us that politics is indeed temporary.
Beyond politics, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Tito Joe, thank you for your leadership, dedication and your belief in the Filipino people.
Muli, ang aming taos-pusong pakikiramay sa mga naulila ni Congressman Joe de Venecia.
Maraming salamat po, Ginoong Pangulo.