Perfecto Yasay Jr: A Turbulent Life of Public Service and Controversy

A Life of Service and Scandal

Perfecto Yasay Jr. is known for his tumultuous stint as the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines under the Duterte administration, as well as his controversial citizenship issues that led to his rejection by the Commission on Appointments. Yasay's life has been marked by a mix of public service, legal controversies, and political intrigues.

Early Life and Education

Born on January 27, 1947, in Kidapawan, North Cotabato, Yasay Jr. came from a family of modest means. His father, Perfecto Yasay Sr., was a pastor, while his mother, Deborah Rivas, was a public school teacher. Yasay Jr. finished his secondary education at Davao City High School in 1963 and received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Central Philippine University, Iloilo City in 1967. He later earned his law degree at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

A Career in Law and Politics

Yasay Jr. became a member of the Bar of the state of New York and of the United States Supreme Court. In the Philippines, he was commissioner of San Jose, Yasay & Santos Law Offices from 1987 to 1993. He later became the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from 1995 to 2000. During his tenure at the SEC, Yasay Jr. was known for his tough stance on corporate governance and his efforts to reform the country's capital markets.

The Estrada Impeachment Trial

Yasay Jr. played a key role in the impeachment trial of President Joseph Estrada in 2001, testifying against the president on charges of corruption. The trial led to Estrada's ouster, marking a significant milestone in Philippine political history.

SEC Chairman and Vice-Presidential Bid

In 2010, Yasay Jr. ran as the vice-presidential candidate of the Bangon Pilipinas Party, alongside presidential candidate Eddie Villanueva. Although they lost the election, Yasay Jr.'s reputation as a seasoned public servant and lawyer continued to grow.

Citizenship Controversy and Rejection

In 2016, Yasay Jr. was appointed as Secretary of Foreign Affairs by President Rodrigo Duterte. However, his appointment was rejected by the Commission on Appointments in 2017, citing concerns over his citizenship eligibility. The controversy surrounding Yasay Jr.'s citizenship status marred his reputation and raised questions about his legitimacy as a public official.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the controversies that have plagued his career, Yasay Jr. remains a significant figure in Philippine politics. His legacy as a champion of corporate governance reform and his role in the Estrada impeachment trial continue to inspire and influence a new generation of public servants and lawyers.

Milestones and Key Events

• January 27, 1947: Born in Kidapawan, North Cotabato
• 1963: Finished secondary education at Davao City High School
• 1967: Received Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Central Philippine University, Iloilo City
• 1979-1990: Managing director of Maceda Philippine News and senior partner at two law firms in New York
• 1993-1995: Associate commissioner of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
• 1995-2000: Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
• 2001: Testified in the impeachment trial of President Joseph Estrada
• 2010: Ran as vice-presidential candidate of the Bangon Pilipinas Party
• 2016-2017: Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines under the Duterte administration
• March 8, 2017: Appointment rejected by the Commission on Appointments

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

"I apologize for hurting and offending President Estrada, but I will not retract my testimony." - Perfecto Yasay Jr. (2010)