Palace mourns death of ex-Senator Tessie Aquino-Oreta

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has conveyed its condolences to the family and friends of former Senator Tessie Aquino-Oreta, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 75.

“Our sincerest condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and colleagues of former Senator Maria Teresa ‘Tessie’ Aquino-Oreta who passed away yesterday, May 14, at the age of 75,” said presidential spokesman Harry Roque in a statement Friday.

Roque lauded Oreta for her “distinguished career in public service” as a Senator during the 11th and 12th Congress, and Representative during the 8th to 10th Congress.

“May perpetual light shine upon the late Senator, and that her soul, through the mercy of God, rests in eternal peace,” Roque said.

At the House of Representatives, Oreta was the first woman to be designated as assistant majority floor leader.

She was a staunch advocate of education and children’s welfare.

Some of her bills that were signed into law include the Early Childhood Care and Development Act and the Solo Parent Act.

Oreta is a sister of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

KGA