By Edalyn B. Acta
The people of Capiz will always remember the life and times of Judy Araneta-Roxas, who died at the age of 91 last August 26, 2025.
As the matriarch of the Roxas political clan, Judy was the wife and mother of two former senators: Gerardo “Gerry” Roxas Sr. (1923-1982) and Manuel “Mar” Roxas II respectively.
Judy was also the mother of Gerardo “Dinggoy” Roxas Jr. (1960-1993), the well-loved congressman of the First District of Capiz from 1987 until his death in 1993.
Her husband Gerry and son Mar also served as Capiz congressmen before their national political careers.
Judy was also supportive to the congressional bid of her grandson Paolo Roxas this year.
The political influence of Judy extended to several generations of public servants in Capiz as one of the key leaders of the Liberal Party (LP), which was co-founded by her father-in-law and former President Manuel Acuña Roxas (1892-1948).
Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas remembered Judy as a “brilliant light” while former governor and congressman Antonio “Tony” del Rosario thanked her for extending friendship “beyond politics”.
More than politics, Judy was a motherly figure in Capiz who was fondly known as “Inday Judy” or simply by the acronym of her name “JAR”.
In her philanthropic and civic works, Judy pushed for youth leadership, women empowerment, and community health.
“With her wisdom, generosity and inspiration, she was like a fairy that made seemingly impossible ideas and goals into pleasant realities,” said Annie Q. Villarruz, former executive director of the Gerry Roxas Foundation (GRF).
“She walked in a room with a strong presence and with a simple smile, she created a connection that transcended boundaries,” added Villaruz.
Eduardo “Ed” Basilonia credited Judy and her son Dinggoy as having initiated the Sinadya Festival for Roxas City in 1988 to honor the Feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.
Cheryl Anne del Rosario shared how it was Judy who first believed in her when she became museum director of Ang Panublion in Roxas City in 2013.
“She knew before I did that it would be the best career path that I would take. Until now, I’m enjoying my work in the museum, still learning everyday and proud to have become an advocate as well for heritage, culture and the arts,” del Rosario said.
Caption
Judy Araneta-Roxas over the years. (Photos from various online archives and personal Facebook pages)
