Ex-AFP, PNP chiefs back Querubin Senate run

Ariel Querubin

Former chiefs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) have officially endorsed Medal of Valor recipient Ariel Querubin's candidacy for the Senate in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.

During the announcement of his intention to run as a senatorial candidate at the Club Filipino in San Juan, Querubin was joined by about 2,000 ex-generals, officers, and personnel who all endorsed him.

"Truth be told, all of us here stood on different sides in many pivotal moments of our nation's rustory,” Querubin said in his speech, as he mentioned key events such as Martial Law, the EDSA revolutions, various coups, and the presidencies from the time Marcos Sr. to Marcos Jr. 

"And yet, we gather here today not as allies of the many political factions but as brothers in arms who have once and always will put our lives for our children, families, and fellow Filipinos We stand united in our service to the Philippines, in our service to God,” he continued.

If elected in the Senate in next year’s polls, the retired colonel highlighted the “critical need” to address corruption, poverty, and inflation.

He also underscored the urgency of securing the country's sovereignty against internal and external threats.

"We find ourselves at a crossroads. The bullying in the West Philippine Sea threatens our sovereignty, while the proliferation of illegal POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) brings social issues that affect our communities,” said Querubin.

Querubin, recognized as the most bemedaled soldier in Philippine history, is also keen on prioritizing the modernization of the military.

He noted that it is “nothing short of urgent and vital for our survival as a free nation”.

At the same time, his candidacy for the Senate aims to strengthen the Filipino's collective spirit of patriotism and sacrifice.

"My vision is a nation of heroes. Isang bayang handang magsakripisyo at kayang ipaglaban ang Pilipino mula sa mga mang-aapi (A nation that is willing to sacrifice and able to fight for Filipinos from oppressors),” he added.

Then-president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo awarded Querubin the Medal of Valor for the exceptional courage, extraordinary heroism, and self-sacrificed he displayed while fighting separatist rebels.

For his supporters, Querubin’s distinguished military career and commitment to public service makes the retired colonel a candidate capable of bridging diverse political perspectives through fostering unity.