House honors Pope Leo, 2 others

MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives has adopted resolutions congratulating Pope Leo XIV and honoring late “super lawyer” Estelito Mendoza and former Zamboanga del Norte congressman Artemio Adasa Jr.

“The election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, as the Vicar of Jesus Christ, marks a pivotal moment in the continued strengthening of the Catholic faith,” a resolution authored by Speaker Martin Romualdez read.

Mendoza, who served as solicitor general from 1972 to 1986 during the 20-year reign of late president Ferdinand Marcos, died on March 26 at the age of 95.

Adasa, who had served as deputy secretary general of the Legislative Operations Department, died on Feb. 7 at the age of 72.

In 2014, Adasa was awarded the rank of colonel in the Philippine Air Force Reserve Command and promoted to brigadier general in 2017.

Adasa will be remembered for “his contribution in framing meaningful pieces of legislation of national and local importance, his passion and dedication for helping others and sincerity to truly serve the country and the Filipino people,” a resolution read.