House Adopts Resolutions Expressing Profound Condolences
The House of Representatives recently adopted separate resolutions expressing profound condolences to the families of the late former Solicitor General Estelito Mendoza and former Zamboanga del Norte Rep. Artemio Adasa Jr. These resolutions reflect the chamber’s deep respect for their service and lasting impact on Philippine law and governance.
Through House Resolution No. 2290, the House paid tribute to Estelito Mendoza, who passed away on March 26 at 95 years old. Members recognized Mendoza’s remarkable contributions to law and public service, highlighting his impressive career as a “super lawyer” and “attorney of last resort.” Mendoza’s legacy as a legal luminary remains firmly entrenched in the nation’s history.
Estelito Mendoza’s Distinguished Career
Mendoza served as Solicitor General from 1972 to 1986 while simultaneously holding key government positions such as member of the Batasang Pambansa representing Pampanga, governor of Pampanga, and minister of justice. He also chaired critical committees on the Revision of Laws and Codes and Constitutional Amendments. Additionally, Mendoza was an active member of major panels including Appropriations, Energy, and Foreign Affairs.
The resolution cited Mendoza’s authorship of significant laws, including the creation of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas and legislation on political party accreditation. Internationally, he held influential roles such as chairperson of the Sixth Legal Committee of the United Nations General Assembly and vice chair of the Philippine delegation to the Third UN Conference on the Law of the Sea.
As a private lawyer, Mendoza handled numerous landmark cases involving former presidents and top officials, further cementing his reputation as a legal icon. He received several prestigious awards, like the Presidential Medal of Merit and the Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award from the University of the Philippines Alumni Association.
The House resolution emphasized that Mendoza’s passing is a profound loss felt by his family, the legal community, and the nation at large, recognizing his unwavering dedication, integrity, and honor in public service.
Remembering Artemio Adasa Jr.’s Legacy
In a separate resolution, HR No. 2286, the House extended its heartfelt sympathies to the family of Artemio Adasa Jr., who died on February 7 at the age of 72. Known affectionately as “Tim,” Adasa represented the first legislative district of Zamboanga del Norte during the Eighth and Ninth Congress. He later served as deputy secretary general of the Legislative Operations Department until retiring in 2017.
Adasa co-authored several key pieces of legislation, including the Local Government Code of 1991, the Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989, the Philippine Foreign Service Act of 1991, the Consumer Act of the Philippines, and the Inter-Country Adoption Act of 1995. His legislative work had a lasting impact on national governance and public welfare.
Following his tenure in Congress, Adasa was appointed undersecretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform before returning to the House in a senior executive capacity. His service was further honored with his promotion to brigadier general in the Philippine Air Force Reserve Command in 2017, after receiving the rank of colonel in 2014.
The House resolution praised Adasa’s dedication to public service and his significant role in shaping vital legislation. He is remembered for his sincere commitment to helping others and serving the Filipino people with passion and integrity.
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