PeopleAsia magazine marked its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration at the Fairmont Makati. As part of the milestone event, the magazine also honored this year’s distinguished “People of the Year” awardees.
Among the honorees was none other than Retired Colonel Ariel Querubin, living war hero, recognized for his patriotism and dedication to inspiring fellow senior citizens.
Joining him on the prestigious list were Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo, actress Marian Rivera, Senators Loren Legarda and Risa Hontiveros, and fashion designer Michael Levy, among others.
The awarding ceremony was hosted by Monaco Consul and entrepreneur RJ Ledesma.
“Thank you, PeopleAsia, for this award. This is for all the heroes who fought for our freedom and democracy,” Querubin said.
No stranger to receiving accolades nor brushes from death, the highly esteemed Marine Corps Officer is known for his illustrious military career. He is a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the highest military honor for exceptional courage and self-sacrifice.
Who is Ariel Querubin?
Querubin graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1979 and later pursued further education, earning a master’s degree in Defense Studies from the University of Canberra, Australia, in 2003.
Beyond his distinguished military career, the retired colonel is a devoted family man with seven children. He married his first love, Dr. Loreta Cercenia-Querubin, and together they had two children, Alfred Benjamin and Francesca Eufrosenia. Tragically, Loreta passed away in 1994.
While serving in the Marines, Querubin found love again with Pong Azcaraga. Pong had two children from a previous relationship—Jose Martin and John Michael. Together, they built a family of their own, raising three children—Jose Ariel, Ariel, and John Ariel—who are accomplished individuals.
Valiant Military Exploits
Querubin played a crucial role in counterinsurgency operations, effectively neutralizing CPP-NPA provincial chairman Jessie Rafael, five MNLF commanders, and one NPA commander. He also led the rescue of Swiss national Hans Kunzli, an MNLF kidnap victim.
His efforts continued in 1994 when he was credited with the neutralization of Barahama Sali, which led to the release of Catholic priest Fr. Cirilo Nacorda, who had been kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan.
In 2002, the military leader spearheaded the operation that eliminated Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Sabaya. The success of this mission prompted U.S. President George W. Bush to personally congratulate Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and the team.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos acknowledged Querubin’s contributions, stating, “Colonel Querubin played a significant role in several legendary exploits, as well as political movements, which have helped shape the history of the military and its role in an emerging global society such as ours.”
Throughout his distinguished career, he earned numerous accolades, including the Medal of Valor—the Philippines’ highest military honor—awarded by President Arroyo for his pivotal role in capturing the MILF’s strategic base, Camp Mack, in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, in 2001.
With his Medal of Valor as evidence of his unwavering bravery, Querubin confesses, “It’s a great honor to get the award. At the same time, when people say I’m a living hero, I tell them we can all be heroes in our own way.”
His commendations also include the Most Distinguished Conduct Star, three Distinguished Service Stars, seven Gold Cross Medals, and 12 Military Merit Medals.
Querubin officially retired from military service in 2021.
Moving to the Next Chapter
Querubin’s decorated military career and deep commitment to public service set him apart as a senatorial candidate capable of bridging diverse political perspectives and fostering unity.
In 2009, he stepped away from the military to run for a Senate seat in the 2010 elections but was not successful.
Fast forward to July 8, 2024—the Marine officer received a powerful endorsement from former Chiefs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), along with nearly two thousand ex-generals, officers, and personnel at Club Filipino.
Last year, he officially filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for the Senate at the Manila Hotel Tent City. He launched his campaign under the Nacionalista Party.
Running for the senate, Querubin emphasized his commitment to addressing widespread hunger, improving educational support, and strengthening the country’s national security and territorial defense.
“Gusto kong tuparin ang pangarap ko na mapalaya ang lahat sa gutom at mabigyan ng kalidad na edukasyon ang ating mga kabataan, lalo na ang mga panganay na madalas nagsasakripisyo upang umalalay sa pangangailangan ng kanilang pamilya,” he said.
He further expressed “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.”
Reflecting on his journey, Querubin shared, “Whenever I look back, I always say, God carefully planned my life. I would have been the first general in my (PMA) class. In one or two weeks, I would’ve been a general. But I stood for my officers and men. I fought for my principles and was jailed for four years. I was jolted by the Lord.”
His time in detention reshaped his perspective. “He taught me that life isn’t just about work but also about making time for family.”
In recent years, Querubin stepped into the corporate world, serving as a consultant for a Philippine multinational conglomerate.
With his life-altering experiences, Querubin is ready to move forward with a renewed purpose. Looking back at his ordeal, he shares, “I’ve often been asked why I think I’ve survived all that I’ve been through. I believe it’s because of God. He’s telling me that I still have a mission on this earth. And that is to share my knowledge, my blessings, and to serve the country again.”
