Senate expresses condolences to family of late Senator Espina

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate on Tuesday adopted a resolution expressing condolences to the family of former senator Rene Espina who recently passed away due to kidney complications. 

Senate Resolution No. 135 was introduced by Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Minority Leader Franklin Drilon.

“He was a serious-minded person with uncompromising attitude and always mindful of the rule of law, he was actively involved not only in public service, but also in civic work, thus, he was conferred the Golden Rooster Award for his outstanding social work and various special awards for civic work,” the resolution said.

Sotto honored Espina, citing several accomplishments during the late lawmaker’s stint as a senator, governor, cabinet secretary, administrator, lawyer host and columnist.

Among his achievements were his award as the Most Outstanding Governor in the Philippines in 1968 and 1969 and serving as the youngest appointed administrator and vice-chairman of the Social Security System. 

Furthermore, Sotto said Espina crafted the first anti-drug law, the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972. 

“We both share the same convictions of having a drug free Philippines and this present Congress will continue to thrive with the legacy he left this nation. He was voted as one of the Most Outstanding Senators during his tenure,” Sotto said.

Espina’s remains will be received at the Senate on Wednesday for a necrological service, where the resolution will also be presented to the family. 

Expected to deliver eulogies for the late senator are Sotto, Drilon, Senators Imee Marcos, Richard Gordon and former Senators Juan Ponce Enrile and Francisco Tatad. /je