PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. pledged on Friday to continue the legacy of his father, former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., by working to improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos. During a visit to his father’s tomb at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, President Marcos Jr. spoke of his father’s dedication and sincerity, highlighting the leadership qualities he observed as a child.
“Now that I am President, his words have become even more important,” he said. “We say RIP, rest in peace. Of course, that’s what we wish for my father. But it’s not enough to just say rest in peace. For my father to rest in peace, we need to continue the work he started, continue to improve the Philippines, and continue to love the Filipino people.”
President Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude to those who continue to support the Marcos family, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of remembering his father. “There’s always a sadness that comes with remembering, but there’s also a great joy, a great happiness, and beautiful memories that bring a smile to your face. That’s what I experienced with my father,” he said.
The former president, born on September 11, 1917, in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, served as an officer during World War II. He went on to become a Senator after serving three terms in the House of Representatives, eventually holding the position of Minority Floor Leader before becoming Senate President. He was elected President of the Philippines in 1965 and passed away on September 28, 1989. He was buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani with full military honors on November 18, 2016.
