Cornelio Villareal

Political career

Villareal's political career began in 1934, when he was elected as a delegate to the 1935 Constitutional Convention. In 1941, Villareal won his first election as a Member of the House of Representatives, representing the Second District of Capiz. Due to the Japanese invasion in late 1941, he did not assume office until 1945. He was re-elected in 1946 under the banner of the Liberal Party, and served continuously until 1972. In 1951, Villareal unsuccessfully sought election to the Philippine Senate, for the seat vacated by Fernando Lopez upon the latter's election as vice-president.

Villareal (left) was re-elected as House Speaker, replacing Jose Laurel Jr. (right) in 1971.

Villareal was first elected Speaker of the House of Representatives during the 5th Congress, in March 1962. During the 6th Congress, he was unseated as speaker in 1967 by Jose Laurel Jr. of the Nacionalista Party. Villareal regained the speakership from Laurel Jr. during the 7th Congress in 1971, and served in that capacity until Congress was abolished upon the declaration of martial law by President Ferdinand Marcos in September 1972.

During his congressional career, Villareal advocated liberal economic and trade policies such as decontrol and decentralization.

Notes and references