Atty. Haydee Bofill Yorac, National Unification Commission (NUC) Chairperson

There is a saying that goes, “Behind the success of every man is a woman.” In this case, we can say that behind the success of the Philippine peace process is a woman of competence. Atty. Haydee Yorac was a distinguished Filipina public servant, law professor, and politician, whose contributions to Philippine governance were profound and lasting. She was best known for her work in restoring integrity to the country’s electoral processes and advocating for good governance. Among her most impactful roles was her leadership at the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), where she worked tirelessly to oversee fair and transparent elections, particularly in contested and remote areas. Her tenure as acting chairperson from 1990 to 1991 marked a period of significant reforms, contributing to the credibility of the electoral process in the Philippines.

One of her notable initiatives was her role as chairperson of the National Unification Commission (NUC), which she led in 1992. The NUC was tasked with addressing the roots of insurgency and fostering national unity. Under Yorac’s leadership, the commission conducted nationwide consultations, which culminated in the creation of the “Six Paths to Peace” framework. This initiative emphasized public participation in the peace process and sought to provide a roadmap for ending internal conflicts in the country, demonstrating her commitment to peacebuilding and inclusivity.

Her work in electoral reforms and national unity, Yorac made significant strides in the fight against corruption. She served as the chairperson of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) from 2001 until her passing in 2005. The PCGG was established to recover ill-gotten wealth accumulated by the Marcos Sr. regime. Under her leadership, the commission successfully retrieved over $683 million from Swiss bank accounts and secured favorable court decisions concerning major corporations. Her efforts in pursuing justice and accountability showcased her unyielding dedication to ensuring that the Philippines moved past its history of corruption.

Yorac’s commitment to justice and governance was internationally recognized when she was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 2004. This prestigious honor highlighted her exceptional integrity, dedication to the rule of law, and her significant contributions to improving governance in the Philippines. Her work left an indelible mark on the country’s political and legal landscape, and she was lauded for her courageous and principled leadership.

Amidst a male-dominated group of peace negotiators, Atty. Haydee Yorac stood out because of her professionalism, determination, and commitment to the peace process. She had a remarkable work ethic which made her an example among her fellow peace workers and her legacy continues to inspire those who value justice, integrity, and public service.