The older generation might remember the above title from the 1966 British film on the life of Saint Thomas More.
The phrase “a man for all seasons” also describes a man who is successful and talented in many areas, a man who is ready to cope with any contingency and whose acts are apropos to any given occasion or situation.
That properly describes Dong Puno. He was a man for all seasons, and he was well-seasoned in a lot of things: as a lawyer; as a communicator; as an analyst and opinion leader; as a public servant and government official; as a son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather.
The great American poet Maya Angelou once said, “ I’ve learned that people forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
I will never forget how “Sec” Dong made me feel.
Atty. Ricardo Villanueva Puno Jr., or simply “Dong,” as he was fondly and famously known, was an inspiration, a mentor, a colleague, and a friend.
I still vividly recall during my days at the University of the Philippines, I would religiously watch his public affairs program Viewpoint on GMA 7.
I was enthralled by his eloquence, presence, and ability to grasp the nuances of whatever were the burning or hot-button issues of the day.
He had the innate ability to elicit difficult answers from his guests, and he did so with suave ease using as his tools logic, facts, and perspicacity. Those on his hot seat would open up without them feeling insulted, harassed, or debased.
He was my peg. He seamlessly combined the two disciplines of the Law and of Media. Both would require skills in research and communication. Each was a natural progression of the other.
I realized then that this was the path to follow. That epiphany served me well. For that I am eternally grateful.
Several years later, you can imagine how excited I was when I became part of Business Today — that iconic and multi award-winning morning show on GMA 7 that Dong hosted for more than a decade.
It got even better. Dong became my mentor and colleague. Several years later, we were together in the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) during the Estrada administration.
Under his leadership, the OPS was the bastion of transparency. He made sure that information was provided to the public we served on a regular and timely basis.
Sec Dong was of the firm belief that an enlightened and informed citizenry could truly participate in a democracy.
There is so much more to say about Sec Dong, but it will take me more than just a column piece. In any event, most, if not all, are aware of his accomplishments as a student, a lawyer, a media practitioner, and a dedicated public servant.
I hope I do him justice with this simple and humble tribute from the heart. Words cannot fully express the sorrow I feel at his passing.
My deepest condolences to Christy, the children, and the entire Puno clan — a family I truly respect and admire for a plethora of reasons.
Rest well, my dear teacher and friend.
Though you sleep, you will never die. Your legacy shall continue to inspire for all seasons.
As I pay tribute to this man for all seasons, may I also remember and celebrate the women for all seasons, all over the world, in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
This year, the United Nations theme for the observance of International Women’s Day is “gender equality for a sustainable tomorrow,” which recognizes the contribution of women and girls around the world who are leading the charge on climate change adaptation, mitigation, and response, to build a more sustainable future for all.
May this day celebrate what women have achieved and the most valuable role they play in our lives and in all aspects of society and community. Women truly rock our world!