Judy Araneta-Roxas, a revered figure and the heart of the Liberal Party’s legacy, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. Known as a steadfast survivor of the Plaza Miranda bombing and a guiding force for generations of Liberal Party members, her death marks the end of an era in Filipino political and social history.
Her son, former senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas, shared the news on social media, saying, “We are very sad to share that our mother Judy Araneta Roxas passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by family and loved ones.” Details regarding the wake will be announced soon, sources said.
Early Life and Resilience Through History
Born on July 31, 1932, Judy Araneta-Roxas lived through some of the Philippines’ most challenging periods. Observers noted her quiet strength and grace as she faced trials that tested the nation’s spirit. Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima described her as someone who “lived through some of the most difficult chapters in our nation’s history and carried herself with grace and resolve.”
From the Plaza Miranda bombing in 1971 to the harsh years under Martial Law, Mrs. Roxas remained a symbol of perseverance. She and her husband, former Senator Gerry Roxas, were among the 95 injured during the bombing of a Liberal Party rally that tragically claimed nine lives. Despite serious injuries, she continued her work with unwavering determination, community members reported.
Quiet Leadership and Lifelong Service
Judy Araneta-Roxas was never one to seek the spotlight. Instead, she led with humility and quiet resolve. Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan remarked, “Seriously injured in the Plaza Miranda bombing, she remained undeterred and went on to touch countless lives.”
She served as president of the Gerry Roxas Foundation and the J. Amado Araneta Foundation, the latter being the social development arm of the Araneta Group. Her dedication extended beyond philanthropy; during her son Mar’s 2016 presidential campaign, she was the largest financial contributor and actively campaigned across the country, local leaders noted.
Liberal Party’s Guiding Matriarch
Within the Liberal Party, Mrs. Roxas was considered a matriarch and mentor. The party’s president, Erin Tañada, said, “She was a voice of wisdom and a wellspring of strength, guiding generations of Liberals to hold fast to the values of freedom, justice, and service to the people.”
Her leadership, though exercised without holding public office, embodied humility, conviction, and grace. Pangilinan added, “She was mother to generations of Liberal Party members.” Meanwhile, Representative De Lima emphasized, “Her counsel and quiet leadership kept the Liberal Party rooted in its ideals.”
Community members and party leaders alike mourn her passing but also celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark on their movement and the nation. Tañada reflected, “We grieve her passing, but we celebrate a life that has left an indelible mark on our Party and our nation.”
Lasting Legacy
Only three weeks ago, Judy Araneta-Roxas celebrated her 91st birthday. Mar’s wife, Korina Sanchez-Roxas, described her as “One of a kind” in a heartfelt social media post. Her influence continues to inspire those who carry the torch of the Liberal Party’s ideals.
Judy Araneta-Roxas’ life story is a testament to enduring strength, quiet leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the principles she championed.
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