The House of Representatives adopted a resolution expressing profound condolences to the family of former Solicitor General Estelito P. Mendoza, honoring his distinguished career in public service and law.
The resolution was authored by Speaker Martin Romualdez, along with Senior Deputy Speaker Dong Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga, Deputy Speaker Jay-jay Suarez, Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe, Minority Leader Marcelino Libanan, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, and Tingog Party-list Representatives Yedda Romualdez and Jude Acidre.
Through House Resolution (HR) No. 2290, the chamber paid tribute to Mendoza, who died on March 26 at the age of 95.
Lawmakers recognized his “remarkable contributions to law and public service,” citing his long record of government and private legal service that earned him the reputation as a “Super Lawyer” and “Attorney of Last Resort.”
Mendoza served as solicitor general from 1972 to 1986, concurrently as member of the Batasang Pambansa representing Pampanga, governor of Pampanga, and minister of justice.
Mendoza served as solicitor general from 1972 to 1986, concurrently as member of the Batasang Pambansa representing Pampanga, governor of Pampanga, and minister of justice.
He also chaired the Committees on Revision of Laws and Codes and Constitutional Amendments, and was a member of several key panels, including Appropriations, Energy and Foreign Affairs.
“As a legislator, Honorable Mendoza authored notable laws and resolutions,” the resolution read, citing, among others, the law creating the Commission on Filipinos Overseas and an act providing for the accreditation of political parties.
He also played a key role in the international legal community, serving as chairperson of the Sixth (Legal) Committee of the United Nations General Assembly and vice chairperson of the Philippine delegation to the Third UN Conference on the Law of the Sea.
“Honorable Mendoza handled numerous high-profile cases that cemented his reputation as a legal luminary.”
“In his outstanding career as a private practicing lawyer, Honorable Mendoza handled numerous high-profile cases that cemented his reputation as a legal luminary,” the House said, referring to landmark cases involving former presidents and high-ranking officials.
The House noted that Mendoza was “widely celebrated” and received multiple awards, including the Presidential Medal of Merit and the Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award from the University of the Philippines Alumni Association. His influence extended to corporate boards and professional organizations.
“The passing of this esteemed and well-respected government servant, and a man of integrity, honor, and unwavering dedication to public service marks a profound and significant loss that is deeply felt not only by his family, relatives, and friends but also by the legal profession and the entire nation,” the resolution stated.
