Ang Pahayagan

ZAMBALES — Government officials, war veterans, and residents of Zambales paid tribute to former President Ramon Magsaysay Sr. on Tuesday, March 17, as the province commemorated the 69th anniversary of his passing.

Known as the “Idol of the Masses” for his strong connection with ordinary Filipinos, Magsaysay, the country’s seventh president, died on March 17, 1957, when his presidential plane, “Mt. Pinatubo,” crashed into Mt. Manunggal in Cebu.

The commemoration was led by Zambales Board Member Jun Rundstedt Ebdane, representing Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr.. He was joined by Vice Governor Jacqueline Khonghun, Castillejos Mayor Jeffrey Khonghun, and representatives from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

The officials offered flowers at the statue of President Magsaysay located at his ancestral home in Castillejos, now converted into a museum that houses memorabilia from his presidency.

In his message, Ebdane called on fellow Zambaleños to uphold the enduring legacy of Magsaysay as a leader who championed the welfare of the common people.

Board Member Jun Rundstedt Ebdane (2nd left), representing Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., and Vice Gov. Jacqueline Khonghun lead the commemorative tribute for President Ramon Magsaysay Sr. during his 69^th death anniversary in Castillejos, Zambales. (Zambales for the People)

“Bilang Zambaleño, tungkulin nating pangalagaan at ipagpatuloy ang pamana na iniwan ni Pangulong Magsaysay—sa pagpapahalaga ng katapatan, malasakit, at tapat na paglilingkod sa ating kapwa,” Ebdane said.

Magsaysay is widely remembered for his humility, integrity, and dedication to public service. During his presidency, he opened the gates of Malacañang Palace to the public and promoted the principle that “Those who have less in life should have more in law.”

Before rising to the presidency, Magsaysay worked as an automobile mechanic and later served as a guerrilla leader during World War II. He was subsequently appointed military governor of Zambales, elected congressman for two terms, and named Secretary of National Defense in 1950 before winning the presidency by a landslide in 1953.

Through Proclamation No. 15 signed in 1966 by then President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., March 17 is observed annually as Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Day.

In Zambales, the provincial government has declared the date a special non-working holiday in honor of the province’s most beloved son and his lasting contributions to the nation. (Taktikom News and Features)