Retired Col. Querubin starts his Senate run anew

CEBU, Philippines — Less than a year away from the 2025 elections, retired colonel Ariel Querubin has started going around the country following his announcement that he will once again seek a seat in the senate.

In a recent press conference in Cebu, Querubin said he accepted the challenge to run again for senator, highlighting the critical need to address corruption, poverty, and other issues.

One issue that should be addressed, Querubin said, is on the controversial West Philippine Sea, in which he underscored the importance of defending the country’s territorial integrity.

“We must stand firm in protecting our maritime rights. Reviving a sense of patriotism is essential, especially among our youth, to ensure that future generations are ready to defend our nation,” said the 68-year-old Querubin, one of the country’s most decorated soldiers.

The retired colonel also emphasized 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 brings social issues that affect our communities. And the call for the modernization of our military - to secure our nation and uphold our sovereignty with the respect it deserves, is nothing short of urgent and vital for our survival as a free nation,” said Querubin in a separate statement.

Querubin also underscored the need 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,” said Querubin.

Earlier this month, in a show of unity, former chiefs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) from the Arroyo, Aquino, Duterte, and Marcos administrations, together with close to 2,000 ex-generals, officers, and personnel officially endorsed Querubin’s candidacy for the Senate.

As a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the highest military honor for exceptional courage and self-sacrifice, Querubin highlights his decorated military career and commitment to public service.

Querubin left behind his military career in 2009 after he ran for senator under the Nacionalista Party together then with Senator and now President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.

This time, Querubin said he remains a member of NP chaired by Senator Cynthia Villar and so far there are no talks yet if NP will have a coalition with the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas chaired by President Marcos. — (FREEMAN)