by Leonardo Micua
The Dagupan Sangguniang Panlungsod has officially declared December 26 each year as “Speaker Jose de Venecia Day” to honor his profound impact and contributions to both the city and the nation.
This is an edict that recognizes De Venecia’s life, legacy, and service, complemented by another ordinance establishing an annual “Speaker Jose de Venecia Leadership and Public Service Commemoration” on the same date.
Born on December 26, 1936, in Pogo Grande, Dagupan City, the late Speaker de Venecia was the longest-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives, having been elected five times over seven congressional terms.
He passed away on February 11 and was laid to rest in the Libingan ng mga Bayani on February 24.
Draft Ordinance No. 0-019, authored by Councilors Luis Samson Jr. and Michael Fernandez, stipulates that Speaker Jose de Venecia Day will be observed as a special commemorative working day unless otherwise designated as a special non-working holiday by the relevant national authority.
The ordinance permits the City government, barangays, educational institutions, and civic organizations to organize suitable commemorative activities in line with its intent.
The Dagupan City government may allocate necessary funds for these official commemoration activities, adhering to existing budgeting, accounting, and auditing guidelines.
Additionally, Draft Ordinance No. 0-20, also authored by Councilors Samson and Fernandez, institutionalizes the “Speaker Jose de Venecia Leadership and Public Service Commemoration” to be held annually on November 26 in Dagupan.
This ordinance outlines the program, implementation, and funding while aiming to inspire future generations of Dagupenos through the exemplary leadership and integrity demonstrated by the late Speaker.
The annual commemoration seeks to foster leadership rooted in integrity and public service, educate youth about de Venecia’s contributions, encourage civic engagement and responsible governance, and enhance Dagupan’s historical consciousness and pride.
Planned activities for the commemoration include:
1. A Speaker Jose de Venecia Leadership Lecture featuring distinguished speakers from governance, diplomacy, or public administration;
2. A Youth Leadership Forum or Civic Dialogue in partnership with educational institutions;
3. Recognition of exemplary youth or public servants from Dagupan;
4. Thematic exhibits, documentary screenings, or public presentations of archival materials;
5. Appropriate memorial rites or wreath-laying ceremonies.
The ordinance mandates that necessary implementation funds be included in the City’s Annual Investment Plan and drawn from the General Fund in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Both ordinances honor de Venecia’s leadership, commitment to democratic dialogue, and significant role in securing national support for Dagupan following the 1990 earthquake—a historic milestone for the city. recognition of his life, legacy, and contribution to the city of Dagupan and the nation.