Francisco Benito Isabelo "Pacoy" Lacsamana Ortega (July 8, 1904 – March 20, 1967) was a Filipino lawyer and politician who served as speaker pro tempore of the House of Representatives of the Philippines from 1946 to 1949. He represented La Union's 1st district in the House of Representatives from 1934 to 1935, 1945 to 1949, and 1953 to 1965.
Early life and education Ortega was born on July 8, 1904, in San Fernando, La Union, to former governor Joaquin Ortega Jr. and Francisca Lacsamana. He graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree and passed the 1925 Bar examination. He began practicing law and pursued postgraduate studies at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
Political career Ortega began his political career with his election to the San Fernando Municipal Council in 1928. In 1934, he was first elected to the House of Representatives, representing La Union's 1st district. He won a second term in 1941 but only assumed office in 1945 following World War II. In 1946, he ran under the Liberal Party banner and won, and was elected House speaker pro tempore. In 1951, Ortega was appointed as mayor of Baguio until 1952. Ortega returned to the House in 1953 after switching back to the Nacionalista Party, and served for three consecutive terms until 1965. His seat was later held by his father in 1969.
Personal life Ortega was married to Corazon Campos, with whom he had nine children, including Victor, Manuel and Pablo, who held his congressional seat for various terms beginning in 1987. His son Mario, is the current governor of La Union since 2025.
Ortega died on March 20, 1967.
Legacy The Speaker Pro Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Legislative Building at the La Union Provincial Capitol and the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center, both in San Fernando City, were named in his honor.
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