Remembering Ramon Magsaysay’s Legacy of Integrity
On August 31, 2025, the Philippines commemorated the 118th birth anniversary of Ramon Magsaysay, the seventh president of the country. His legacy of integrity and leadership continues to inspire many Filipinos today. Local leaders and community members gathered at the Ramon Magsaysay Center in Malate, Manila, where personal belongings and memorabilia of the late president are preserved.
Francisco “Paco” Magsaysay, the grandson of Ramon Magsaysay, described his grandfather as a president who valued honesty and deliberately distanced his family from political dynasties. “He really emphasized his honesty and integrity,” Paco said during the event. “I remember when he was president, he didn’t allow any other family member to enter the government.” This strong stance against political dynasties remains a defining feature of Magsaysay’s leadership.
Legacy Beyond Politics
Despite Paco never meeting his grandfather—since he was born a decade after Lolo Ramon’s tragic death—he shared that stories about the late president’s character and leadership were passed down by family and others. Ramon Magsaysay served as president from 1953 until his untimely death in a plane crash in 1957 at the age of 47.
During his presidency, Magsaysay took a firm stand against nepotism. Paco revealed that his grandfather even told his in-laws, the Bansons from Bataan, that he did not want any family members involved in government, even those who had previously held office. “When he became president, he actually said that he didn’t want family members in the government,” Paco recalled.
Political Dynasty Stance Confirmed by Historians
Filipino historian Xiao Chua supported Paco’s account, emphasizing the late president’s opposition to political dynasties. According to Chua, Magsaysay’s son, former Senator Jun Magsaysay, only ventured into politics after his father’s death. “And today, Senator Jun has no children [who] ran for elective office,” the historian noted.
Chua also pointed out that Ramon’s brother, Genaro Magsaysay, entered politics only after Ramon passed away, and that the president’s direct line chose not to continue political careers. This highlights Magsaysay’s unique approach to leadership, setting him apart from many political figures in Philippine history.
A Leader Who Loved His Country
Describing Ramon Magsaysay’s leadership style, Xiao Chua called him “impatient, pragmatic, action-oriented, and incorruptible.” The historian expressed how deeply Magsaysay loved his country and its people, striving to meet their basic needs during his tenure.
“He loved his country and his people,” Chua said, underscoring how Magsaysay’s dedication differentiated him from some modern leaders who have been accused of corruption and self-interest. “I hope we elect more leaders with the greatness of spirit of Magsaysay and the Magsaysay awardees,” the historian added.
Preserving a Priceless Heritage
At the Ramon Magsaysay Center, visitors can see various artifacts, including a shoe recovered from the site of the tragic plane crash on Mount Manunggal in Cebu. These relics serve as poignant reminders of a leader who put the nation’s welfare above personal gain.
The center also displays campaign paraphernalia and paintings honoring the late president, allowing Filipinos to reflect on the values he embodied. Community members remarked on the importance of remembering leaders like Magsaysay who championed integrity and public service.
For more news and updates on Ramon Magsaysay’s legacy, visit Filipinokami.com.
