Kathmandu: Five-time Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, Jose de Venecia Jr., passed away on February 10, 2026, at the age of 89.
In tribute to the veteran statesman, the 20th Congress held memorial rites at the Plenary Hall of the House of Representatives of the Philippines, gathering lawmakers, former leaders, and dignitaries to honour his legacy.
Speaker Faustino Dy III presided over the ceremony, where former speakers, former Senate presidents, and incumbent members of Congress delivered eulogies and shared reflections on de Venecia’s decades of public service. Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo praised his statesmanship, highlighting his contributions to diplomacy and parliamentary leadership.
Among the international dignitaries present was former minister Ek Nath Dhakal, who regarded JDV as a mentor in peacebuilding and paid tribute to his role in advancing dialogue and cooperation across Asia.
Members of JDV’s family including his wife, Congresswoman Gina de Venecia, and his children were honored through the presentation of Legislative Memorabilia.
Beyond national politics, de Venecia also founded the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), underscoring his commitment to regional dialogue and cooperation.
Ek Nath Dhakal also serves as the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers
Conference (ISC), a global platform of parliamentary leaders committed to fostering meaningful collaboration among parliaments across the world.
