Manila: Former Speaker of the House Jose De Venecia Jr. died on Tuesday at the age of 89. In a statement, the De Venecia family announced his passing 'with heavy hearts,' remembering him as a "beloved husband, father, grandfather, and patriarch who devoted more than six decades to public service as a journalist, diplomat, entrepreneur, legislator, and global advocate for peace".

According to Philippines News Agency, the family expressed gratitude for his life, stating, 'As we mourn his passing, we give thanks for a life that helped shape the Philippine Republic and for a legacy that endures in our laws, our institutions, and our continuing pursuit of peace.' De Venecia is survived by his wife, Pangasinan Fourth District Representative Gina de Venecia, their children, grandchildren, and extended family. His wife Gina fondly remembered his humble beginnings in Dagupan City.

De Venecia, born on December 26, 1936, in Dagupan City, served seven terms in the House of Representatives, five of them as Speaker. Known as 'JDV' or 'Speaker Joe,' he was the architect of the Rainbow Coalition and the principal author of significant laws, including the Dollar Remittance Program and the New Central Bank Act.

Dagupan City Mayor Belen Fernandez stated that the city mourns his passing and credited him for helping rebuild Dagupan after the 1990 earthquake. "Through his leadership and authorship of the necessary national funding, he became the principal architect of our rehabilitation, recovery, and renewed rise," she said.

Leyte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez honored De Venecia as a statesman who helped shape the nation. 'Today, we mourn the passing of one of the greatest pillars of Philippine democracy and the political father of Lakas-CMD,' he stated, highlighting De Venecia's contributions to unity, peace, and international dialogue.

Details regarding the wake and interment will be announced shortly, according to De Venecia's family.