JPE laid to rest at Libingan ng mga Bayani

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

Former Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile (File Photo: Juan Ponce Enrile/Facebook)

MANILA – Former Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile was laid to rest on Saturday at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (LNMB) in Taguig City, where he was accorded full military honors in recognition of his long service in government.

A solemn funeral Mass, attended by family members, colleagues, and friends, was held at the Santuario de San Antonio Church in Makati City before the burial.

Uniformed personnel stood in formation outside the church as the flag-draped casket was carried out.

Enrile, a long-time public servant, received full military honors led by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.

His casket was brought to the gravesite through a funeral march, where his family and friends bid their final goodbye.

Enrile, who passed away at 101, served multiple administrations and held key roles in government for many years.

His interment at the LNMB followed the honors customarily extended to former Cabinet officials and military reservists.

A lawyer by profession, Enrile began his national career in the 1960s and rose to prominence after being appointed Secretary of Justice and later Defense Minister.

Enrile served in both the executive and legislative branches, becoming one of the country’s most influential political figures.

He was a central figure during the political events of the 1980s and later transitioned to legislative work, serving multiple terms in the Senate.

During his tenure in the upper chamber, he chaired major committees and served as Senate President from 2008 to 2013.

Known for his extensive legal background, he was appointed Chief Presidential Legal Counsel under the current administration, continuing to serve in government well into his later years.

Over the course of his career, Enrile contributed to key national policies, legal reforms, and defense-related initiatives.