A Spark of Hope at the People’s Monument
Today, on Martial Law Day, I joined fellow citizens at the People’s Monument in Quezon City—just a short walk from home. I was invited to speak elsewhere, but something told me to stay close. I’m grateful I did.
Despite the rain and traffic, people kept coming. Old friends, social media kindred spirits, distinguished leaders, and everyday Filipinos—braving the weather and the risks, not for spectacle, but to speak truth, to be heard, to remember. I stayed for two hours, listening to the crowd, watching the quiet courage of those who refused to be silenced.
And in that sea of voices, I met someone extraordinary: Francis Joseph “Kiko” Aquino Dee. He thanked me for mentioning him in my posts—but truly, it is I who should thank him.
Kiko is not one to seek the spotlight, though it often finds him. A writer, educator, and political analyst, he has quietly built a reputation for thoughtful commentary and principled leadership. He teaches at the University of the Philippines and contributes to Rappler, where his essays reflect both intellectual depth and moral clarity. He studied Political Science at UP Diliman and earned his Master’s in Political Economy from the London School of Economics.
But beyond credentials, what struck me most was his humility. He carries the legacy of the Aquino and Dee families—names etched in our nation’s history—but he walks his own path with grace. His voice is calm, his convictions firm. He speaks not to impress, but to awaken.
Today, he served as spokesperson for the “Trillion Peso March”—a movement born of conscience, not ambition. And he did so with quiet dignity, reminding us that leadership is not about volume, but about values.
I told him to keep going. To continue inspiring. Because we need young leaders like Kiko—those who can communicate with heart, mobilize with wisdom, and lead with soul.
This rally was more than a protest. It was a reunion of conscience. A reminder that we are not alone. That we are still fighting—for our rights, for truth, for justice. May this day remind us that silence is never an option, and that the rain cannot wash away our resolve.
To Kiko, and to every young Filipino who dares to speak up: we see you. We believe in you. And we walk beside you.
#RelentlessForChange
Bago sisihin ng mga ka-dds natin ang mga kung ano anong eme, wag natin kalimutan na itong project noah na naging malaking tulong eh pinatigil ni Digong
@gcashofficial Ilang araw na hindi maka send ng pera.. nag submit na ngbticket pero wala pa ring nassolve.. puro "check your internet connection" eh malakas naman wifi ko... naka stock ang pera.. baka mmaya mawala na lang...
@gcashofficial I can't send money... lagi sinasabi my "internet is not stable" or "Check your wallet balance"
On the contrary, i have a strong internet connection and my Wallet balance is more than enough...
I have already submitted my complaint but no response until now.
Former Sen. Kiko Pangilinan passed at least 150 laws (under Arroyo, Aquino and Duterte admin), while former Sen. Bam Aquino passed at least 41 (under Aquino and Duterte).
Meanwhile, DDS senators barely passed landmark laws even under the Duterte.
Doon tayo sa mga nagtatrabaho.
Opisyal akong sumali sa @AkbayanParty, isang mahalagang hakbang para palakasin ang ating laban para sa karapatang pantao. Lubos akong nagpapasalamat sa Akbayan sa kanilang pagtanggap & kay Sen @risahontiveros, kasama sina Rafaela David at Etta Rosales, sa pangunguna ng panunumpa.
We’ve given the Democrats a chance to fix this country. We’ve given Republicans a chance. What has not had a chance is a unity government, headed by an independent President beholden to no party, free from corporate influence, owing no favors to the Washington establishment, and ready to recruit the best ideas from both parties and from all those who have been left out. #AmericaStrong 🇺🇸