The Sixth Great Man of the Philippines

President Elpidio Quirino, born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, on November 16, 1890, was a classic self-made man. He financed his early education by working as a barrio teacher and clerk before earning his law degree in 1915. His talent caught the attention of Manuel L. Quezon, who hired him as his private secretary, launching a career that saw Quirino serve as a Congressman and Senator. His political acumen was instrumental in the Philippine independence movement, notably through his involvement in the mission that secured the Tydings-McDuffie Act in 1934.

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Quirino's path was marked by the trauma of World War II. After holding key Cabinet posts, he joined the anti-Japanese resistance, leading to the tragic massacre of his wife and three children in 1945. Following liberation, he became the first Vice President of the newly formed Third Republic under Manuel Roxas. Quirino suddenly assumed the presidency in April 1948 upon Roxas's death.

As the sixth President (1948–1953), Quirino’s primary achievement was leading the nation's post-war reconstruction. His administration prioritized industrialization, establishing the Central Bank of the Philippines and initiating major infrastructure projects. He successfully negotiated for war reparations from Japan, securing vital funds for recovery. However, his term was severely challenged by the escalating Hukbalahap rebellion and pervasive corruption allegations, which marred his administration and led to his political defeat.

Quirino’s legacy is that of a resilient statesman who championed economic stability and guided the Philippines through its difficult transition into a sovereign, modern state. Despite the controversies, his fundamental contributions to economic governance and securing the young Republic’s place on the world stage remain key to understanding post-war Philippine history.

Reference:

Commemoration of the 125th Birth Anniversary - The Life And Times Of President Elpidio R. Quirino. (2025). Dfa.gov.ph. https://romepe.dfa.gov.ph/about-the-philippines/people/80-overseas-voting-advisories/456-commemoration-of-the-125th-birth-anniversary
Elpidio Quirino - Google Arts & Culture. (n.d.). Google Arts & Culture. https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/elpidio-quirino/m02bmxs
A Tale of Two Presidents: Normalization of relations with Japan. (n.d.). Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1036022?hl=en-GB
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The Future

The youth are the future's hope, as Jose Rizal once stated. I particularly agree, as we have the opportunity to improve the world. Specifically, children can create better opportunities using their knowledge, time, and experience. With this knowledge, the government plays a significant role in our safety and well-being.

  

I want to share my thoughts on how children should be treated by the government. First, and most importantly, laws should be passed regarding proper care and protection. These laws ensure safety and serve as a barrier to prevent unwanted actions and harm that may, and will, ruin children's lives. Having assurance that there is safety and protection, children's physical, mental, social, and emotional health is sure to improve.

Fortunately, the Philippine government views the child as a priority sector with a non-negotiable right to special care and development. This constitutional principle is operationalized through critical laws that serve as a protective "barrier." The State's commitment extends further through the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (R.A. 9344), which shifts focus from punitive action to restorative justice, reinforcing the government’s role as a guardian of development rather than just an enforcer of punishment.

For children to truly become the "hope of the future," the government's duty extends beyond legal protection to holistic investment. This requires a coordinated approach that fully funds and implements programs across health, education, and social services. This commitment entails ensuring accessible mental health support, providing quality and inclusive education that equips children with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they need, and establishing safe spaces both physically and digitally.

 

Ultimately, the desired treatment for the youth depends on the government's smart investment. By imposing protective laws and funding developmental programs, the government can help children fulfill their role as "hope" of the future.

Reference:

Child protection. (n.d.). UNICEF. https://www.unicef.org/child-protection

R.A. 9344. (n.d.). https://lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2006/ra_9344_2006.html

Strategy for the Rights of the Child (2022-2027). (2025, February 4). Children’s Rights. https://www.coe.int/en/web/children/strategy-for-the-rights-of-the-child

What is the Convention on the Rights of the Child? (n.d.). UNICEF Thailand. https://www.unicef.org/thailand/what-is-crc

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