Former Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile dies at 101

Former Senate president and chief presidential legal counsel Juan Ponce Enrile died at home on November 13 at the age of 101.

His daughter confirmed his death, stating he had been in intensive care for pneumonia and passed surrounded by family.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mourned Enrile's passing, describing him as "one of the most enduring and respected public servants our country has ever known."

Marcos Jr. added that Enrile dedicated over 50 years of his life to serving the Filipino people and helping guide the country through challenging moments.

Enrile served in government under seven Philippine presidents, from Ferdinand Marcos Sr. to his son, Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., except for Emilio Aguinaldo.

He was a protégé of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., serving in key roles including defense secretary and martial-law administrator, and was instrumental in the 1986 uprising that ousted Marcos Sr.

After earning degrees from the University of the Philippines and Harvard University, Enrile became the 21st Senate President from 2008 to 2013.

He was acquitted of charges related to the pork barrel scam last month and later backed Marcos Jr.'s presidential candidacy in 2022, serving as his chief presidential legal counsel until his death.