February 10, 2026
I deeply mourn the passing of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., our beloved Manong Joe, and I extend my sincerest condolences to Cong. Gina, his devoted wife, and the whole de Venecia family.
I would probably not be a Senator today if Manong Joe or JDV had not recruited me in 1997, as early as then believed in my capabilities, shared his knowledge and wisdom, being the global Filipino that he is. A true statesman who was way ahead of […]
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November 6, 2025
My deepest condolences to the families and comrades of the airmen who died in the aircraft crash in Agusan del Sur while in the line of duty performing humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations to those affected by Tropical Storm Tino.
As an officer of the Philippine Air Force Reserve, I share in the sorrow of losing gallant men who wore their uniform with pride and valor, placing the welfare of the people we serve above their own comfort and safety.
Their […]
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November 4, 2025
I strongly condemn the theft and desecration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s bust at the Place Jose Rizal in Paris’ 9th arrondissement, as confirmed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Rizal is deeply honored not only by Filipinos but also by the government and people of France, the country where he once studied and completed his novel El Filibusterismo. The stealing of his bust is an affront to our cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of our national hero, whose ideals […]
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May 31, 2025
No nation with a conscience can plead ignorance of what is unfolding.
The ongoing devastation and terror happening in Gaza is a human tragedy of unspeakable proportions. The continued blockade, indiscriminate bombardment, and obstruction of basic humanitarian assistance have pushed over two million civilians to the brink of famine, displacement, and death. These are not consequences of war, but of impunity left unchallenged.
I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the ongoing assault on Palestinian life and liberty, and the entrenched structures […]
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May 31, 2025
No nation with a conscience can plead ignorance of what is unfolding.
The ongoing devastation and terror happening in Gaza is a human tragedy of unspeakable proportions. The continued blockade, indiscriminate bombardment, and obstruction of basic humanitarian assistance have pushed over two million civilians to the brink of famine, displacement, and death. These are not consequences of war, but of impunity left unchallenged.
I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the ongoing assault on Palestinian life and liberty, and the entrenched structures […]
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