A Legacy Rooted in Service: The Verano Family of Surigao del Sur

In the richness of Philippine history, certain family names carry with them not just lineage, but responsibility — a tradition of service, justice, and compassion. The Verano family, whose ancestry traces back to Spanish colonial times, is one such name. More than heritage, it is the unwavering commitment to uplift others that defines this clan — a legacy that continues through the lives and work of its descendants.

Senator Felisberto M. Verano, Sr.: A Statesman of Principle

Born on August 23, 1905, in Bislig, Surigao, Felisberto Montenegro Verano treaded on a distinguished political career that significantly impacted Philippine governance. He served as Deputy Governor of Surigao from 1937 to 1940 and was actively involved in the guerrilla movement during World War II. Post-war, he became a technical assistant to Presidents Manuel Roxas and Elpidio Quirino. In 1949, he was elected to the House of Representatives for Surigao's lone district. His political journey culminated in his election to the Philippine Senate in a special election in 1951, serving until 1953.

His legacy continues, with the Felisberto Verano High School in Cortes, Surigao del Sur, named in his honor. The institutions bearing his name are not monuments to power but reminders of a legacy steeped in selfless public duty.

Judge Osing Y. Verano: Defender of the Voiceless

Judge Osing Y. Verano, a respected RTC judge, was renowned for his untiring commitment to justice and the underprivileged. His tenure was marked by a spotless record, leading to his retention during the Aquino administration's reforms. His spotless record shielded him from the political upheavals of transitioning administrations. During the Aquino administration, which was marked by a purge against corruption, Judge Verano’s impeccable integrity retained him in office—a testament to his upstanding character.

Beyond the courtroom, he donated land for the poor and provided burial grounds for the community, embodying selfless service. His earlier role as legal counsel to Assemblyman Jose Puyat, further highlighting his role in pivotal moments of Philippine governance. Judge Verano is revered for his compassion and advocacy for the less fortunate. Throughout his career, Judge Verano dedicated himself to providing legal assistance to those who could not afford it.

Although he later ventured into politics, his brief campaign for a congressional seat did not diminish his profound impact on public service.

Congresswoman Lorna Verano-Yap: A Voice for the People

Lorna Verano-Yap, daughter of Senator Felisberto Verano, served as a Congresswoman representing Pasay City from 1987 to 1992. A cum laude graduate in Speech and Drama from the University of the Philippines Diliman, she was recognized as one of the Top Ten Lawmakers in 1988 and was awarded the Most Outstanding Congresswoman of the Philippines for 1989–1990. Beyond her legislative work, she was a founding leader of the Alyansa Para sa Kaganapan ng Katarungan sa Pasay and a founding member of the 21 August Movement. Her advocacy centered on human rights, consumer protection, and support for small businesses. She also held leadership roles within the Liberal Party and was known for her efforts in championing the rights of the marginalized.

Epimaco Densing III: A Distinguished Public Servant and Visionary Leader

A prominent figure within the extended Verano family, Epimaco Densing III carries forward the family's storied tradition of principled leadership and public service. Currently vying for the governorship of Surigao del Sur, Densing brings with him an impressive record as a former Undersecretary of the Department of Education and the Department of Interior and Local Government — key positions that underscore his breadth of expertise in governance and reform.

His campaign is rooted in tangible solutions: raising education standards, strengthening local government accountability, and driving economic renewal in the region. With a strategic mind sharpened by years of executive service, Densing stands not merely as a political aspirant, but as a statesman in the making — resolute in his vision to build a province that honors its heritage while forging a progressive, inclusive future for every Surigaonon.

Ronnie B. Verano: A Humble Servant, Not a Dynasty

Now stepping forward to serve Lingig, Surigao del Sur, Ronnie B. Verano carries both the privilege and the burden of a respected family name. But make no mistake — his candidacy for Sangguniang Bayan Member is not anchored in legacy, but in lived experience. A professional with years of work in both public and private sectors, Ronnie has always operated with a quiet diligence, letting his work speak louder than his lineage.

He is not running to carry a torch — he is running to light a fire: for better access to basic services, for farmers to be heard, for jobs to be created, for youth to be engaged, and for the people of Lingig to feel that government exists not above them, but among them.

Ronnie brings with him a deep understanding of local needs, and a sincere commitment to listen first, act second, and never forget that public office is a privilege, not a prize. His vision is not of entitlement, but of empowerment — of putting people first, and politics last.

The Verano Name: A Legacy Not of Power, But of Purpose

In an era where the term “political dynasty” often clouds public discourse, the Verano family presents a different narrative — one not of control, but of consistency. Across generations, from the Senate to the smallest barangay, their service has been marked not by self-interest, but by sacrifice, stewardship, and service.

May this legacy serve not as a campaign, but as a compass — pointing towards a kind of leadership the country still desperately needs: principled, people-first, and never forgetting where it all began.

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