Manila, October 7, 2024 – Ariel Querubin filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for senatorial bid.
Querubin, the most bemedaled soldier in Philippine history and a Medal of Valor recipient, was accompanied by his family, former AFP, PCG, and PNP generals and officers, and supporters at the Manila Hotel Tent City. Supported by Gen. Benjamin B. Magalong.
The retired soldier clarified that he is running under Nacionalista Party but will avoid aligning with established political slates.
“My loyalty is to the people, not to any political slates. Joining a slate would mean choosing sides, and that is not what I stand for,” Querubin said.
However, this did not mean Querubin was not open to joining any coalitions. Calling for unity, the retired military officer said, “Bukas ako na umanib sa isang coalition of independents na uunahin ang bansa, uunahin ang mahihirap, bibigyang dangal ang sakripisyo ng ating mga bayani, at bibigyang halaga ang mabuting pamamahala.”
Asked for his reasons for running for the Senate, Querubin explained that his candidacy is driven by a desire to address widespread hunger, improve educational support, and bring strong leadership to the Senate, particularly on issues of national security and the defense of the country’s territorial rights.
“Gusto kong tuparin ang pangarap ko na mapalaya ang lahat sa gutom at mabigyan ng kaledad na edukasyon ang ating mga kabataan, lalo na ang mga panganay na madalas nagsasakripisyo upang umalalay sa pangangailangan ng kanilang pamilya,” Querubin said.
“Bilang retiradong marines, hindi ko kayang maupo at manood na lamang habang patuloy tayong inaapi sa West Philippine Sea. Lalaban tayo para sa ating karapatan. Para sa ating seguridad. Para sa ating kinabukasan,” Querubin added.
Querubin, who was born in Pangasinan but is celebrated as a folk hero in the South for his military exploits in Palawan, the Visayas, and Mindanao, had initially announced his desire to re-enter public service in July after receiving strong backing from 2,000 former military, coast guard, and police generals and officers.
