Manaoag Pangasinan fell into mourning Tuesday with the death of Jose de Venecia Jr., a former House Speaker whose political reach helped shape the country’s modern history. He was 89 when he passed away, ending a career few Filipino politicians have matched in length or influence.
To allies and rivals alike, De Venecia was a skilled negotiator. Called JDV or Speaker Joe, he understood power not as noise, but as patience. His family shared the news with “heavy hearts,” describing a man deeply devoted to both country and kin.
Born in Dagupan City on December 26, 1936, De Venecia never forgot where he came from. He often recalled humble days marked by open fields, early mornings, and a life far removed from national politics. Those roots stayed with him even as his stature grew.
His political record was historic. Seven terms in the House of Representatives and five terms as Speaker placed him at the center of legislative power for years. As leader of the Rainbow Coalition, he helped steer difficult alliances and authored laws that reinforced economic growth and government stability.
Even outside Congress, his influence was felt. After the 1990 earthquake, Dagupan City turned to him for help. Mayor Belen Fernandez later credited De Venecia’s leadership with guiding the city’s recovery and rebuilding its confidence.
Internationally, he built a different kind of reputation. De Venecia became known for advocating peace, interfaith understanding, and cooperation across borders. These efforts gave him a rare global standing for a Filipino legislator.
Behind the political figure was a family man. He leaves behind his wife, Gina de Venecia, their children including Christopher de Venecia, grandchildren, extended relatives, and the memory of their late child, KC de Venecia.
Jose de Venecia Jr. exits the national stage quietly, but his mark remains loud in law books, institutions, and the political culture he helped shape. For many, his life stands as proof that influence can be exercised without spectacle.
Photos: Jose de Venecia Jr. presiding in Congress; diplomatic events highlighting his peace advocacy; community scenes from Pangasinan reflecting his lifelong ties.
