Juan Ponce Enrile Is Dead: 101-Year-Old Politician in PH, Who Served During the Cold War Peacefully Passed Away

Juan Ponce Enrile, one of the Philippines' most enduring and influential political figures, has died at the age of 101, his family confirmed on Thursday. His daughter, Katrina, announced that the former senator and defence chief passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family.

The news immediately trended across social media platforms, where Enrile's long and complex legacy resurfaced in public debate. His death marks the end of a political era that spanned the Cold War, the Marcos dictatorship, and the Philippines' modern democratic transition.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Juan Ponce Enrile was born on 14 February 1924 in Gonzaga, Cagayan, to Petra Furagganan, the stepdaughter of a fisherman. Born out of wedlock to Alfonso Ponce Enrile, an influential politician, he was baptised Juanito Furagganan before later taking his father's surname.

He graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines College of Law and went on to earn a Master of Laws degree from Harvard Law School, specialising in international tax law. After completing his studies abroad, he returned to the Philippines and established himself as a prominent lawyer, entering government service during the Cold War period and rising to national positions under President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

Key Roles in Government During the Cold War

Enrile first held major national office as Justice Secretary before being appointed Defence Secretary under President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. He was a central figure in shaping policies during the turbulent years leading up to the 1972 declaration of martial law. His involvement placed him at the heart of one of the most controversial chapters in Philippine history, as the Marcos administration consolidated power and imposed military rule.

In a dramatic political turn in February 1986, Enrile withdrew support from Marcos Sr and joined reformist military officers at Camp Aguinaldo. His defection helped trigger the People Power Revolution, a mass civilian uprising that ended the dictatorship and restored democracy. The moment cemented his status as a pivotal figure in modern Philippine political history.

A Long and Influential Legislative Career

Following the transition, Enrile went on to serve several terms in the Senate spanning multiple administrations. He became Senate President in 2008, a position he held until 2013, presiding over some of the country's most high-profile legislative inquiries. His sharp questioning style, political longevity and ability to navigate shifting alliances made him one of the most influential members of the upper chamber.

Enrile's impact extended far beyond legislation. He became a symbol of political survival, earning both admiration and criticism for a career that lasted more than half a century. In 2022, at the age of 98, he returned to government service as Chief Presidential Legal Counsel under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, underscoring his long-standing influence in national affairs.

Public Perception, Longevity and Cultural Impact

Enrile's long life made him a familiar cultural figure, often referenced in Filipino media, political commentary and online humour. His centennial birthday in 2024 was marked with official recognition and public interest, highlighting the extraordinary span of his career and the changing eras he lived through. For many Filipinos, he represented a direct link to the Cold War, martial law and the post-1986 democratic restoration.

Controversies and Legal Battles

Throughout his career, Enrile also faced numerous controversies. Critics associated him with human-rights violations during martial law, allegations he consistently rejected. He was later implicated in the Priority Development Assistance Fund scandal, a high-profile corruption case. In October 2025, the Sandiganbayan acquitted him and his co-accused, closing one of the most significant legal challenges of his later years.

Family Statement and National Reactions

His daughter described his final moments as peaceful, following earlier clarifications from the family after incorrect reports circulated about his condition earlier in the week.

Government officials, political allies and former colleagues have since issued statements acknowledging his influence on national policy and his unique place in Philippine history. His passing has prompted renewed discussion about his role across multiple political eras, reflecting the scale of his impact on the country.