A centurion’s journey through political storms

At the dawn of his 101st birthday, Juan Ponce Enrile stands as one of the longest-surviving icons in Philippine politics — a living testament to decades of revolutions, power shifts and historical reinvention.

His life’s story is a tapestry of triumphs, trials and transitions, shaped by both admiration and controversy.

Enrile’s legacy traces a remarkable arc, stretching across nearly a century of political upheaval and transformation.

“To have been able to serve my country through all these decades of trials and uncertainty and to have enjoyed the sweet and simple joys of a long and productive life is the best reward of all,” Enrile said in his memoir.

Born on 14 February 1924, in the modest town of Gonzaga, Cagayan, Enrile’s humble beginnings stood in contrast to the extraordinary political journey that lay ahead.

He was the son of a fisherman and a Spanish mestizo lawyer, Alfonso Ponce Enrile, and a mother from a humble fishing family.

His early life, marked by his adoption at age 20, was filled with challenges that only deepened his resolve to succeed.

Brilliant and hardworking, Enrile’s academic excellence earned him accolades from Ateneo de Manila University and later, the University of the Philippines, where he established himself as one of the brightest legal minds of his generation.

Despite growing up in poverty, Enrile was never defined by his circumstances.

His academic achievements and sharp legal mind opened doors to influential positions, leading him to forge a long and consequential relationship with former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

As Marcos’ trusted lawyer and advisor, Enrile rose to prominence, later becoming a central figure in the political and military affairs of the country.

In 1987, he secured a seat in the Senate, quickly rising as a leading figure in the newly reestablished government.

Despite some who condemn him, Enrile thrived in his new role, using his legal expertise and experience to shape critical legislative matters.

“I have been judged and condemned many times. But I fear only the ultimate judgement of God and of history. People have different impressions about me, about you and about others, so let it be,” he said.

As Senate President from 2008 to 2013, Enrile guided the Senate with a blend of authority and pragmatism.

Under his leadership, significant laws such as the Anti-Torture Act and the Expanded Senior Citizens Act were passed. His leadership was often hailed for its fairness.

Enrile’s career, while marked by legislative victories, was also deeply entangled in controversy. He faced detention, but despite the legal challenges, his political relevance remained strong.

In 2015, he secured bail after a Supreme Court ruling, underscoring his resilience and ability to maintain influence.

“Of my personal battles, I won some and lost some. The game of life is an eternal drama. Each of us has a role to play. We are given the free will to choose which path we want to take, and sometimes we think we have the power to decide the outcomes of such choices. But we often forget that there is such a thing as fate,” Enrile stated.

Throughout these legal battles, Enrile’s reputation remained undiminished by scandal. His capacity to withstand pressure and remain a formidable force in Philippine politics spoke to his remarkable resilience and political acumen.

A return to power

In 2022, at the age of 98, Enrile made yet another return to public service, this time as Chief Presidential Legal Counsel under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the son of his former political partner.

His comeback was a testament to his enduring relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine politics. At the age of 100, Enrile showed no signs of slowing down, continuing to serve the country with a commitment that belied his age.

“I may be in my 100th year, but my commitment to serving the people of this country has not diminished,” Enrile remarked.

As he celebrates his upcoming 101st birthday, Enrile’s story is far from over. He has witnessed, and actively shaped, the political and social landscape of the Philippines across decades of change. Through periods of political instability, economic struggles, and national rebirths, Enrile’s resilience and adaptability have defined his journey.

In his centennial year, Enrile remains a figure whose legacy is marked by both triumphs and controversies. His name is etched in the history books, and while opinions on his actions and affiliations remain divided, there is no denying his indelible impact on Philippine politics. Whether admired as a strategic mastermind or criticized for his polarizing decisions, Enrile’s story is one of survival and influence.

The President, in a tribute to Enrile on his 100th birthday, last year, aptly called him “a man who has attained the status of an icon in the pantheon of Philippine history.”

As the country looks to the future, Enrile’s continued presence in the political arena serves as a reminder of the complex layers that shape both history and legacy.

His journey from humble beginnings to political power exemplifies the enduring spirit of a man who, through it all, remains at the eye of the storm.