AFP mourns passing of ex-defense minister Juan Ponce Enrile

By Priam Nepomuceno, Philippine News Agency

Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile (Juan Ponce Enrile/facebook)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday mourned the death of Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile, recognizing his decades-long role in shaping national policy.

“The AFP mourns the passing of Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, former Secretary/Minister of National Defense, former Secretary of Justice, and former Senate President,” it said in a statement.

The military also said it honors Enrile’s years of service and the enduring debates about his legacy, which form part of Philippine national history.

“Across decades of public service, he played a consequential role in the nation’s security and political life, serving as Secretary of Justice (1968–1970) and Secretary/Minister of National Defense (1970–1971; 1972–1986; 1986), before returning to the legislature where he later became President of the Senate (2008–2013),” the AFP said.

Besides this, Enrile was also appointed Chief Presidential Legal Counsel by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on June 30, 2022 until his death.

The AFP also said that it extends its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

Enrile was reportedly under intensive care since earlier this week due to pneumonia. He passed away on Thursday at the age of 101.