Co-Sponsorship Speech of Sen. JV Ejercito expressing the sincere appreciation of the Senate to Sen. Sonny Angara for his Exemplary Service to the Institution and to the Filipino People as a Senator of the Philippines
July 31, 2024
Mr. President, my dear colleagues:
It is my distinct honor and
privilege to co-sponsor Proposed Senate Resolution No. 1070 expressing our deep
and abiding appreciation to one of our own:
Senator Juan Edgardo Manalang
Angara—more affectionally known as “SONNY”—for his exemplary service to the
institution and to the Filipino People as a Senator of our Republic.
Mr. President, I would have to
admit that today is a bittersweet moment for this representation.
While I am beaming with immense
pride and joy for Senator Angara’s new task as the new Secretary of Education,
I am also sad to see him depart from the halls of our beloved Senate before we
end the 19th congress.
More than 11 years have passed
since the distinguished gentleman from the great province of Aurora and I were
first elected as neophyte Senators during the 2013 midterm elections.
At that time, Senator Angara and I
belonged in separate political camps—he was with the administration Team PNoy
Slate, and I was in the opposition United Nationalist Alliance.
But be that as it may, following
the Senate's noble tradition of bipartisanship,
I am deeply grateful that Senator
Sonny and I transcended party lines from the very onset of our terms in this
Chamber, forging a strong working relationship and, more importantly, a
friendship built on shared values and principles.
This bond, forged in the crucible
of often demanding legislative work, has made our achievements even more
fulfilling—it has truly been an honor to work alongside the gentleman from
Aurora over these many years.
Undoubtedly, the eminent national
figure, the late Manong Ed Angara, and the equally remarkable Ma’am Gloria
Manalang Angara, consider it a profound blessing to have a son like Sen. Sonny.
As you take on your new
responsibility as Secretary of Education, I offer my unwavering support. In
every policy debate, Senator Angara has consistently demonstrated meticulous
preparation that has shaped countless pieces of legislative measures that positively
impact millions of Filipinos.
Building on the work of Vice
President Sara Duterte and her team, I have full confidence that as Secretary
of Education, Sonny Angara will champion policies that will propel our
education system forward.
In closing Mr. President, dear
Colleagues, allow me to pay homage to my Xaverian brother by citing some lines
from the hymn of our beloved Alma Mater:
“Strength
and purity of soul, mind, and body.
Self-sacrifice,
the spirit of charity”
These are qualities that you have
always so effortlessly embodied in every role you have undertaken as a public
servant.
Luceat Lux, my dear friend and
colleague. Continue to let your Light shine in the service of our people.
Maraming salamat po.