Helena Benitez facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Helena Benitez
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| Member of the Batasang Pambansa from Cavite | |
| In office July 23, 1984 – March 25, 1986 |
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| Member of the Interim Batasang Pambansa from Southern Tagalog | |
| In office June 12, 1978 – June 5, 1984 |
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| Senator of the Philippines | |
| In office December 30, 1967 – September 23, 1972 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Helena Zoila Tirona Benitez
June 27, 1914 Manila, Philippine Islands |
| Died | July 14, 2016 (aged 102) |
| Nationality | Filipino |
| Parents | Conrado Benitez (father) Francisca Tirona (mother) |
| Alma mater | Philippine Women's University George Washington University University of Chicago Iowa State College |
| Occupation | educator and politician |
Helena Zoila Tirona Benitez (June 27, 1914 – July 14, 2016) was an important Filipino leader. She was a dedicated educator and a skilled politician. Helena Benitez served as a Senator of the Philippines from 1967 to 1972. She also served in the Batasang Pambansa from 1978 to 1986.
Beyond politics, she was a key administrator at the Philippine Women's University. She also founded the famous Bayanihan Dance Company. Helena Benitez passed away in Manila at the age of 102.
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Early Life and Education
Helena Zoila Tirona Benitez was born in Manila, Philippines, on June 27, 1914. Her father was Conrado Benitez and her mother was Francisca Tirona. She grew up in a family that valued learning and public service.
Helena was a very bright student. She attended the Philippine Women's University. Later, she studied in the United States. She went to George Washington University, the University of Chicago, and Iowa State College. Her studies helped her become a respected educator.
Becoming an Educator
After her studies, Helena Benitez became an important figure in education. She worked as an administrator at the Philippine Women's University. This role allowed her to help shape the minds of many young Filipinos. She believed that education was key to a better future for everyone.
A Life in Public Service
Helena Benitez dedicated many years to serving the Filipino people. She held important positions in the Philippine government. Her work helped make laws and guide the country.
Serving as Senator
In 1967, Helena Benitez was elected as a Senator of the Philippines. A senator is a lawmaker who helps create rules for the country. She served in the Senate until September 1972. At that time, martial law was declared, and the Congress was closed. This meant her term as Senator ended earlier than planned.
Member of the Batasang Pambansa
After the period of martial law, Helena Benitez continued her public service. She became a member of the Batasang Pambansa. This was a new legislative body that replaced the old Congress. She served from 1978 to 1986. During this time, she represented the people of Southern Tagalog and later Cavite.
Champion of Culture and Arts
Helena Benitez was not only a politician and educator. She also loved and supported Filipino culture. She believed that art and dance were important for national identity.
Founding the Bayanihan Dance Company
One of her most famous achievements was founding the Bayanihan Dance Company. This group showcases traditional Filipino dances and music. The Bayanihan Dance Company has performed all over the world. They helped share the beauty of Filipino culture with many people. This company is still active today and is very well-known.
Her Lasting Legacy
Helena Benitez lived a long and impactful life. She passed away on July 14, 2016, at the age of 102. She is remembered as a pioneering woman in Philippine politics and education. Her work helped improve the lives of many Filipinos. She also helped preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. Her dedication to public service and culture continues to inspire others.
