By Eva Visperas
Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez urged his colleagues in government to honor the enduring legacy of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., calling on them to embody the values he championed: unity, compassion, and the pursuit of progress.
This call to action came during the inauguration of the Jose de Venecia Building and Museum at the Batasan complex on January 28, 2025. In his speech, Speaker Romualdez described the former Speaker as “a man of great ideas” and “of profound humanity.” He emphasized that the true measure of greatness lies not in titles, but in the lives one touches and the future one shapes.
Romualdez fondly remembered Speaker de Venecia, a five-time speaker of the House of Representatives, as a mentor and an inspiration. “His wisdom, tempered by decades of experience, his humility, borne out of genuine service, and his unwavering optimism continue to inspire us all,” he said.
Accompanying Speaker de Venecia at the event were his wife, former Pangasinan Representative Maria Georgina “Manay Gina” de Venecia, and his son, Rep. Christopher de Venecia of Pangasinan’s 4th District. Several lawmakers, including Tingog Partylist Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez and Representatives Ramon Guico, Mark Cojuangco, Rachel Arenas and her mom former Deputy Speaker Rose Marie Arenas, Rufus Rodriguez, and Ace Barbers, also attended to honor the former Speaker.
Pangasinan 4th District leaders were also present like Dagupan City Mayor Belen Fernandez, Manaoag Mayor Jeremy Agerico Rosario, San Fabian Mayor Marlyn Agbayani and her husband Vice Mayor Constante Agbayani, San Jacinto Mayor Leo de Vera.
Speaker Romualdez highlighted Speaker de Venecia’s leadership and visionary role in shaping Philippine politics. “He is not merely a leader of his time but an architect of the future,” Romualdez said, citing Speaker de Venecia’s achievements, particularly his ‘Rainbow Coalition’—a hallmark of inclusive governance that strengthened the country’s legislative framework.
Romualdez also praised the former Speaker’s international diplomacy, particularly his advocacy for interfaith dialogue, which earned him global recognition. Speaker de Venecia’s work in fostering peace and understanding, both in the Philippines and worldwide, was a key element of his legacy.
In ending his tribute, Romualdez said, “Mabuhay ka, Speaker Jose de Venecia. Your legacy is not merely remembered; it is lived, every day, by the people you served and the nation you loved.”