Juan Ponce Enrile Dies at 101

Juan Ponce Enrile, a pivotal figure in Philippine politics who served as defense secretary during martial law and later as Senate president, died on Thursday afternoon at his home in Manila. He was 101 years old.

Enrile's daughter, Katrina Ponce Enrile, confirmed the death in a Facebook post, stating that he passed away at 4:21 p.m. on November 13, 2025, surrounded by family members. "It is with profound love and gratitude that my father, Juan Ponce Enrile, peacefully returned to his Creator," she wrote. She noted that fulfilling his wish to spend his final moments at home had been a blessing for the family. Enrile had been receiving treatment for pneumonia and was recently discharged from the hospital after a stay in the intensive care unit. The family requested privacy during their grieving period and indicated that arrangements for a public viewing would be announced soon. They expressed appreciation for the public's support and prayers.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who appointed Enrile as chief presidential legal counsel in 2022, paid tribute to him in a statement from Malacanang Palace. "We say goodbye to one of the most enduring and respected public servants our country...