Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Friday honored the late Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile or JPE, paying tribute to his decades-long political career and his contributions to the nation.
Enrile passed away on Thursday at the age of 101, as announced in a social media post by his daughter, Katrina Ponce Enrile.
‘Across his six decades of distinguished service to the nation, Manong Johnny was steadfast in his championing of the interests of the Filipino people. In his capacity as a Cabinet member across various administrations, he worked tirelessly and selflessly to strengthen our institutions and to uphold the principles and tenets that make our nation great,’ Bersamin said in a statement.
Describing him as a ‘legal luminary and political titan,’ Bersamin said Enrile crafted legislation and ‘promoted and safeguarded the dignity and well-being of all citizens’ during his tenure as a Senator.
‘His stint as Senate President strengthened the chamber, enabling it to overcome the many political challenges of the time,’ he added.
He also highlighted Enrile’s iconic mantra-‘Gusto ko happy ka!’-as something that will be etched in the minds of Filipinos for a long time.
‘As we grieve his loss, may we find inspiration in his work and example, and strive to preserve the worthy legacy he has left behind,’ said Bersamin.
Born on Feb. 14, 1924, Enrile was the country’s oldest active public official, with his career spanning over several administrations-making him one of the country’s longest-lived legal luminaries.
It was during his tenure as defense minister from Feb. 9, 1970, onwards, when Enrile began gaining prominence and controversy.
He played a key role and was known as one of the architects in the implementation of martial law during former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s administration, which lasted for 20 years.
Enrile later withdrew his support and became one of the central figures in the 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution, which forced the Marcoses into exile.