The House of Representatives recently passed House Resolution 2165, offering heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Deogracias Victor Savellano, who served as Undersecretary of the Department of Agriculture and previously as Deputy Speaker. Savellano, who died on January 7, 2025, at the age of 65, was remembered for his dedication to public service and his contributions to agricultural and cultural development in the Philippines.
Savellano leaves behind his wife, Dina Bonnevie-Savellano, and their children: Josephine Elizabeth Marie Savellano-Padua, Patricia Angelique Marie Savellano-Singson, Deogracias Jose Victorino Savellano, Virginia Nicole Savellano, and Rita Marie Savellano-Ocampo. Born on November 25, 1959, in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, to Victorino Savellano and Virginia Barbers, he had a distinguished career that included roles as governor and vice governor of Ilocos Sur.
The resolution, introduced by key figures such as Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and others, praised Savellano’s commitment to the people, with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. noting his heart always belonged to those he served. Savellano’s efforts in promoting agricultural development, improving farmers’ lives, and preserving local culture were highlighted as hallmarks of his service.
His political journey began as vice mayor of Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, from 1981 to 1986. In 2023, he was appointed as DA Undersecretary for livestock, and also served as an oversight official for the National Tobacco Administration and as a DA representative to the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Council.
As a legislator, Savellano was instrumental in passing several significant laws aimed at enhancing cultural heritage, trade, tourism, and health. Notable among these are laws establishing national music competitions for young artists, promoting creative industries, regulating vaping products, expanding hospital capacity in Ilocos Sur, and creating a maritime industry extension office in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
During his tenure as governor of Ilocos Sur, Savellano launched the Kabsat Caravan, a program designed to support local farmers by providing them with free farm machinery and inputs, significantly boosting the province’s agricultural sector.