By Daniel Que
Pangasinan will observe a special public holiday on November 13 to commemorate the 128th birth anniversary of Speaker Eugenio P. Perez, a prominent figure in the province’s history.
Perez was the first House Speaker of the First Congress under the Philippine Third Republic and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s political and economic landscape.
Born in Obong, a sitio formerly part of San Carlos (now a barangay in Basista), Speaker Perez served as the Representative of the second district of Pangasinan from 1946 to 1957. This district included San Carlos, his hometown, and he also served as a Representative in the National Assembly under the Commonwealth.
A key achievement of Speaker Perez was his authorship of Republic Act No. 170, which led to the elevation of Dagupan to cityhood in 1947, a milestone for the province. He also contributed to significant national legislation, including the Bell Trade Act and the Party Rights Amendment to the Constitution, both of which had lasting effects on the Philippines’ political and economic development.
In recognition of his legacy, the Speaker Eugenio Perez National Agricultural School (SEPNAS) was established to continue his advocacy for the welfare and development of Pangasinan’s people.
As the first Pangasinense to serve as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Perez demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to public service. In his honor, Republic Act No. 6721 was enacted, declaring November 13 as a special public holiday in Pangasinan to celebrate his contributions.
Governor Ramon Guico III issued Executive Order No. 0134, series of 2024, on November 8, urging the people of Pangasinan to reflect on the life and works of Speaker Perez and to conduct activities that honor his enduring impact on the province and the nation.