Famous Filipino Leaders

Jose Rizal was an ophthalmologist by profession who later became a prominent writer and key member of the Filipino Propaganda Movement. He advocated for political reforms in the Philippines under Spanish colonial rule. Rizal's literary works, including the novels Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo, as well as his poems and essays, played a significant role in inspiring the Philippine Revolution. Despite not being directly involved in the revolution's planning, he supported its goals, which ultimately led to the country's independence.

Rodrigo Duterte is a Filipino lawyer and politician who served as the 16th president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022. He is the chairperson of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino, the ruling political party during his presidency. With a background in law, Duterte worked as a lawyer and prosecutor before becoming vice mayor and later mayor of Davao City. He focused on combating illegal drugs, crime, and corruption, while also initiating infrastructure projects and economic reforms during his presidency.

Ferdinand Marcos was a Filipino politician who served as the tenth president of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986. He implemented martial law from 1972 to 1981, claiming to rule under "constitutional authoritarianism." His regime was marked by corruption, extravagance, and brutality. Marcos initially focused on economic growth but oversaw a downturn that led to widespread poverty and debt crisis. He faced public backlash, leading to his removal from power during the People Power Revolution in 1986.

Manuel L. Quezon was a prominent Filipino lawyer, statesman, soldier, and politician who served as the president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines from 1935 until his death in 1944. He was the first Filipino to lead the entire Philippines and is considered the second president of the country. Quezon focused on addressing various issues during his presidency, such as land reform, military defense, government reorganization, settlement and development in Mindanao, and combating graft and corruption. He demonstrated strong leadership during World War II, establishing a government in exile in the U.S. and advocating for victims of the Holocaust.

Andrés Bonifacio y de Castro was a Filipino revolutionary leader known as "The Father of the Philippine Revolution". He co-founded and became the Supreme President of the Katipunan, a movement that aimed for Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule. Bonifacio reorganized the Katipunan into a revolutionary government and declared a nation-state called Haring Bayang Katagalugan or Republika ng Katagaluguan. Despite not being officially recognized as a Philippine President, he played a crucial role in the country's fight for freedom, leading to his execution in 1897 for sedition and treason.

Ramon Magsaysay began his professional career as an automobile mechanic before transitioning into politics. He distinguished himself as a guerrilla leader during the Pacific War, which led to his appointment as military governor of Zambales. Magsaysay then served as a congressman and later as the Secretary of National Defense. He was elected as the seventh President of the Philippines, making history as the youngest individual to hold the position. Magsaysay's tenure was marked by his commitment to reform and fighting corruption.

Lapulapu, a datu of Mactan, gained fame for leading his men in the 1521 Battle of Mactan, defeating the Spanish forces led by Ferdinand Magellan. Considered the first Filipino hero for resisting Spanish colonization, Lapulapu's bravery is celebrated with monuments across the Philippines. With limited historical records available, details about his professional life remain uncertain. Despite the lack of concrete information, Lapulapu's legacy as a fearless leader who stood against foreign invaders is deeply ingrained in the history and culture of the Philippines.

Diosdado Macapagal was a Filipino lawyer, poet, and politician who served as the ninth President of the Philippines from 1961 to 1965. He was the sixth Vice President from 1957 to 1961 and a member of the House of Representatives. Macapagal worked to combat corruption, boost the economy, and implement significant reforms such as the country's first land reform law. He shifted the observance of Independence Day, introduced economic policies, and played a key role in constitutional conventions.

Apolinario Mabini y Maranan was a Filipino revolutionary leader, educator, lawyer, and statesman. He served as a legal and constitutional adviser to the Revolutionary Government and became the first Prime Minister of the Philippines. Mabini played a crucial role in shaping the fight for independence in the Philippines through his works such as "The True Decalogue" and "The Constitutional Program of the Philippine Republic." Despite losing the use of both his legs to polio, he continued his revolutionary and governmental activities, facing both Spanish and American colonial rule in Philippine history.

Manuel Roxas was a prominent Filipino lawyer and politician who made significant contributions to his country's history. He served as the fifth President of the Philippines from 1946 until his untimely death in 1948. Prior to this, he held the position of the third and final President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines. Roxas played a pivotal role in the transition of the Philippines from a U.S. territory to an independent republic, leaving a lasting legacy in the political landscape of the nation.

Elpidio Rivera Quirino was a Filipino lawyer and politician who had a distinguished career in public service. He served as a representative of Ilocos Sur, a senator, and a member of the Philippine Independence Commission. Quirino played a key role in drafting the 1935 Philippine Constitution and held important cabinet positions in the government. He became the 6th President of the Philippines, succeeding Manuel Roxas. During his presidency, he faced challenges from the Hukbalahap insurgency. Quirino sought reelection but was defeated in 1953.

Sergio Osmeña Sr. was a distinguished Filipino lawyer and politician who held various significant positions in the government. He served as governor of Cebu, member and first speaker of the Philippine House of Representatives, senator, and Senate president pro tempore. A co-founder of the Nacionalista Party, Osmeña played a crucial role in Philippine politics, eventually becoming the fourth President of the Philippines. Known for his leadership and contributions to the country's governance, he was an influential figure in shaping the nation's history.

Jesse Robredo was a Filipino politician who served as the 23rd Secretary of the Interior and Local Government under President Benigno Aquino III. Prior to this role, he served six terms as Mayor of Naga in Camarines Sur. Robredo was recognized for his achievements as mayor with the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service in 2000, becoming the first Filipino mayor to receive this honor. His dedication to public service and governance led to his appointment to the Cabinet in 2010 until his tragic death in a plane crash in 2012.

Carlos P. Garcia was a Filipino lawyer, teacher, poet, orator, and political economist. He began his political career as a representative of Bohol's 3rd district in the House of Representatives and later served as a senator. Garcia was the vice president of the Philippines from 1953 to 1957, and he became the country's eighth president after the death of President Ramon Magsaysay. He won a full term as president in 1957 but was defeated in his reelection bid in 1961.

Gabriela Silang was a Filipino military leader who emerged as a prominent figure in the Ilocano independence movement from Spanish colonial rule. Following her second husband's assassination, she bravely assumed leadership of the movement. Despite facing challenges and the risks involved, she fearlessly led her people for a brief but impactful period. Her unwavering dedication to the cause of independence and her courageous actions in the face of adversity left a lasting legacy in the history of Filipino resistance against colonial oppression.

Salvador Laurel was a prominent Filipino lawyer and politician who held significant positions in the government. He served as the Vice President of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992 under President Corazon Aquino. Laurel briefly acted as the last Prime Minister for a month in 1986 before the position was abolished. He played a crucial role in the United Nationalist Democratic Organization (UNIDO) and was instrumental in the overthrow of President Ferdinand Marcos during the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Risa Hontiveros is a prominent Filipino politician, community leader, and journalist who has been serving as a Senator since 2016. Prior to her current role, she was a party-list representative for Akbayan from 2004 to 2010. Known for advocating for the SOGIE Equality Bill, she has been a vocal critic of President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs. Hontiveros is considered a key opposition figure to the administration of President Bongbong Marcos and co-hosts the radio program Oras at Bayan on Veritas 846 since 2024.

José P. Laurel was a prominent Filipino politician, lawyer, and judge. He notably served as the President of the Japanese-occupied Second Philippine Republic during World War II, from 1943 to 1945. Despite the controversial nature of his presidency during this period, he was later officially recognized as a former president of the Philippines by subsequent administrations. Laurel's professional life was marked by his involvement in politics, law, and the judiciary, leaving a lasting impact on the history of the Philippines.

Isabelo de los Reyes Sr. y Florentino was a prominent Filipino patriot, politician, writer, journalist, and labor activist in the 19th and 20th centuries. He founded the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, the first-ever Filipino independent Christian Church, and was known as the "Father of Philippine Folklore", the "Father of the Philippine Labor Movement", and the "Father of Filipino Socialism". De los Reyes was a journalist, editor, and publisher, imprisoned for revolutionary activities, influenced by European socialists and Marxists, and founded the first labor union federation in the Philippines.

Jovito Salonga was a prominent Filipino politician and lawyer known for his role as a key opposition leader during the authoritarian rule of Ferdinand Marcos. He served as the 14th president of the Senate of the Philippines from 1987 to 1992, following the People Power Revolution that ousted Marcos from power. Salonga's professional life was characterized by his dedication to upholding democracy, advocating for human rights, and fighting against corruption and abuse of power in the government.

Fernando López Sr. was a prominent Filipino statesman who served as vice president of the Philippines under Presidents Elpidio Quirino and Ferdinand Marcos. He was a member of the influential Lopez family of Iloilo and played a key role in the Liberal and Nacionalista Parties. Additionally, he served as the chairman of ABS-CBN Corporation during a crucial period from 1986 until his passing in 1993. López's professional life was marked by his contributions to politics and media, leaving a lasting impact on Filipino society.

Pedro Paterno was a Filipino politician known for his controversial shifts in allegiance. He was involved in the signing of the Pact of Biak-na-Bato, which he later documented in a publication. Paterno was a versatile writer, credited with the first novel by a native Filipino, "Ninay," and the first Filipino collection of poems in Spanish, "Sampaguitas y otras poesías varias." His professional life encompassed roles as a politician, poet, and novelist, with a significant impact on Filipino literature and history.

Claro M. Recto was a Filipino politician, statesman, lawyer, jurist, author, writer, columnist, and poet. He played key roles in Philippine history, notably as the president of the 1934 Constitutional Convention and a significant contributor to the 1935 Philippine Constitution. Recto served as a representative of Batangas and later as a senator. He was appointed as an Associate Justice to the Supreme Court, despite facing wartime challenges and accusations. He also held positions in education, health, public welfare, and foreign affairs, leaving a lasting legacy in Philippine politics and law.

Luis Mangalus Taruc was a Filipino political figure and rebel known for his leadership of the Hukbalahap group during the agrarian unrest from the 1930s to the Cold War's end. He was influenced by socialist Pedro Abad Santos and joined various organizations advocating for peasant workers' rights. Taruc led guerrilla operations against Japanese occupiers during World War II and continued fighting for agrarian reform post-war. Despite being elected to the House of Representatives, he faced government opposition and eventually returned to armed struggle. Taruc was later recognized as a hero for his nationalist and pro-worker advocacy.

Monsour del Rosario is a multi-talented individual with a diverse professional background. He is renowned for his achievements as a Filipino taekwondo champion and actor in various action films. In addition to his successful entertainment career, he has held important roles in the sports and political arenas. Monsour has served as the Secretary General of the Philippine Taekwondo Association and as a member of the Philippine Olympic National Sports Association Martial Arts Council. He also has experience in public service, having been a city councilor and congressman for the 1st district of Makati.

Corazon Aquino was a Filipino politician who served as the eleventh president of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992. She played a pivotal role in the People Power Revolution that ousted President Ferdinand Marcos, leading to the establishment of the democratic Fifth Philippine Republic. Aquino focused on economic reforms, establishing international economic credibility, dismantling monopolies, and promoting a responsible economy. She oversaw the drafting of the 1987 Constitution, pursued peace talks to resolve conflicts, and faced challenges such as coup attempts and natural calamities during her presidency.

Benigno Aquino III was a Filipino politician who served as the 15th President of the Philippines from 2010 to 2016. Prior to his presidency, he held positions as a member of the House of Representatives, Senate, and deputy speaker of the House of Representatives. During his presidency, Aquino oversaw significant economic growth and pursued a confrontational foreign policy, particularly in filing an arbitration case against China over territorial claims in the South China Sea. He faced legal actions after leaving office but was ultimately acquitted.

Joker Arroyo Jr. was a prominent Filipino statesman known for his pivotal role in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. He served as a Congressman for Makati and later as a Senator, earning recognition for his contributions to the legal profession and public service. Arroyo was honored with awards such as the Philippine Bar Association's Most Distinguished Award for Justice. He was renowned for his frugality in government spending, earning him the nickname "Scrooge of Congress." Arroyo was also recognized as a human rights violations victim of the Martial Law Era.

Ramon Villarosa Mitra Jr. was a prominent Filipino statesman, diplomat, and pro-democracy activist. He held various key positions in the Philippine government, including serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1987 to 1992. Before that, he was Corazon Aquino's Minister of Agriculture, a member of the Batasang Pambansa, and a senator. Throughout his career, Mitra played a significant role in shaping Philippine politics and governance, advocating for democracy and contributing to the development of the country.

Benigno "Ninoy" Simeon Aquino Jr. was a Filipino politician who served as a senator and governor before being arrested after martial law was imposed. He founded the Lakas ng Bayan party and ran for office, gaining popularity as a vocal critic of the Marcos regime. Despite threats, he returned to the Philippines to fight for democracy but was tragically assassinated. His death sparked renewed opposition to Marcos, leading to his wife Corazon's successful presidential bid and the renaming of Manila International Airport in his honor.

Macario Sakay y de León was a Filipino general known for his involvement in the 1896 Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire and the subsequent Philippine–American War. Despite the war officially ending in 1902, Sakay continued to resist American occupation by leading guerrilla raids. In 1903, he established the Tagalog Republic and declared himself as its president. Sakay's leadership and commitment to fighting for Filipino independence made him a significant figure in Philippine history.

Francis Pangilinan is a Filipino lawyer, politician, and farm owner known for his extensive career in public service. He served as a Senator for multiple terms, including as Senate Majority Leader. With a background in law and public administration from prestigious institutions, he also held a key role in the government as Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization. Despite an unsuccessful bid for vice president in the 2022 elections, he continues to engage with the public through hosting programs on TV and radio.

Marcelo H. del Pilar was a prominent Filipino writer, lawyer, journalist, and freemason who played a crucial role in the Reform Movement in Spain. He was known for his anti-friar movement and his editorial work for La Solidaridad. Del Pilar's advocacy for reforms transitioned to support for a revolution against Spain. Despite facing challenges and exile, he remained dedicated to his cause, ultimately succumbing to tuberculosis in Barcelona. His contributions to Filipino history and independence continue to be recognized and revered.

Jovito Salvaña Palparan Jr. is a retired Army general, former politician, and convicted criminal. He served as the commander of the Philippine Humanitarian Contingent in the Iraq War and was a Congressman representing the Bantay party-list group. Palparan earned the nickname "The Butcher" for his aggressive campaign against communist rebels. He was found guilty of kidnapping and serious illegal detention related to the enforced disappearance of two individuals in 2006, resulting in a 40-year imprisonment sentence.

Gregorio "Gringo" Ballesteros Honasan II is a Filipino politician and former Philippine Army officer known for leading unsuccessful coups against President Corazon Aquino. He played a significant role in the 1986 EDSA Revolution that ousted President Ferdinand Marcos. Honasan continued to be involved in coup attempts until 1992 when he was granted amnesty. He later transitioned into politics, serving as a senator from 1995 to 2004 and again from 2007 to 2019. Honasan ran for vice president in 2016 but was defeated. In 2018, he was appointed Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology by President Duterte.

Benigno Simeón Quiambao Aquino Sr. was a Filipino politician who held the position of Speaker of the National Assembly in the Japanese-sponsored puppet state of the Philippines during 1943-1944. He also served as the Director-General of KALIBAPI, a political party formed under the Japanese occupation. His political career was marked by his involvement in the government structures established during that period. Aquino Sr.'s legacy is notable for his political roles during a challenging time in Philippine history.

Amado V. Hernandez was a prominent Filipino writer and labor leader known for his bold critique of social injustices in the Philippines. His involvement in the communist movement led to his imprisonment, making him a central figure in a significant legal case that spanned over a decade. Hernandez's professional life was dedicated to advocating for the rights of workers and marginalized communities, using his writing as a powerful tool to shed light on societal issues and fight for social change.

Mariano Marcos y Rubio was a lawyer, educator, and politician from Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. He served as a Congressman from 1925 to 1931. Known for his contributions to education and law, he played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of his region. He is recognized for his legacy in public service and his influence on the development of the Philippines during his time in office. He is also honored through the establishment of educational institutions bearing his name.

Emilio Aguinaldo was a Filipino revolutionary, statesman, and military leader. He served as the youngest president of the Philippines and became the first president of an Asian constitutional republic. Aguinaldo led the Philippine forces in various conflicts, including the Philippine Revolution against Spain, the Spanish-American War, and the Philippine-American War. He is hailed as a national hero in the Philippines, although his legacy is clouded by controversies surrounding his alleged involvement in the deaths of revolutionary leaders and collaboration with the Japanese Empire during World War II.

Bam Aquino is a Filipino politician and social entrepreneur who served as a Senator of the Philippines from 2013 to 2019. He is known for his active involvement in various initiatives focused on social development, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment. Aquino has been recognized for his advocacy work in promoting education, job creation, and financial inclusion for marginalized communities. His professional life is characterized by a commitment to advancing policies and programs that aim to uplift the lives of Filipinos, particularly those in need.

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is a Filipino academic and politician who served as the 14th president of the Philippines from 2001 to 2010. Before her presidency, she was the 10th vice president and a senator. She also served as the representative of Pampanga's 2nd district, Speaker of the House, and Deputy Speaker. Arroyo has a background in economics, having studied at Georgetown University. She entered government in 1987 and has been involved in various roles, advocating for causes like the abolition of the death penalty.

Mary Grace Natividad Sonora Poe-Llamanzares is a Filipino politician and philanthropist who has been serving as a senator since 2013. She previously held the position of chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board. Poe ran for the Philippine Senate in 2013 and won a seat, garnering over 20 million votes. She also ran for president in 2016 and placed third in the race. In May 2019, Poe was reelected as senator, receiving over 22 million votes.

Alfredo "Fred" Siojo Lim was a Filipino politician, police officer, and lawyer who had a distinguished career in public service. He served as a Senator of the Philippines from 2004 to 2007 and was elected as the Mayor of Manila twice. Prior to his political career, Lim spent thirty years in law enforcement, including as the Director of the National Bureau of Investigation. Known for his tough approach against criminals, he earned the moniker "Dirty Harry" and was a prominent figure in local action films.

Juan Ponce Enrile is a Filipino politician and lawyer known for his significant roles in Philippine history. He served as the 21st President of the Senate, played a key role in the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, and was involved in the failed coup that led to the 1986 People Power Revolution. Enrile has had a long career in the Philippine legislature, serving four terms in the Senate. He returned to government office in 2022 as the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel.

Francis Escudero is a Filipino politician and former voice actor. He currently serves as the 25th President of the Senate of the Philippines. Escudero has been a Senator since 2022 and previously held the position from 2007 to 2019. He also served as the governor of Sorsogon from 2019 to 2022 and was the representative for Sorsogon's 1st district from 1998 to 2007. Escudero has a background in law, having worked as a lawyer and lecturer. He obtained his Master of Laws degree from Georgetown University in the United States.

Freddie Webb is a versatile figure known for his diverse professional roles. He has excelled as a basketball player and coach, showcasing his athletic prowess on the court. Webb has also ventured into politics, serving as a former politician in his home country. Additionally, he has made his mark in the media industry, captivating audiences as a television and radio personality. Throughout his career, Freddie Webb has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for engaging with people across various platforms.

Franklin Magtunao Drilon is a prominent Filipino lawyer and former politician known for his extensive career in public service. With the longest tenure in the Senate of the Philippines, he served four non-consecutive terms and held various key positions including Senate president, president pro tempore, Majority Leader, and Minority Leader. Drilon was also Secretary of Labor and Employment, Secretary of Justice, and Executive Secretary under different presidential administrations. A member of the Liberal Party, he has been a significant figure in Philippine politics and governance.

Francisco Tiongson Duque III is a Filipino physician and government official with extensive experience in public service. He has served as Secretary of Health in the Cabinets of Presidents Rodrigo Duterte and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Additionally, Duque held the position of chair of the Civil Service Commission from 2010 to 2015. His career highlights include overseeing crucial health policies and programs, as well as contributing to the development and implementation of civil service regulations in the Philippines.

Heherson "Sonny" Turingan Alvarez was a prominent Filipino politician who held various significant positions in the government. He served as a member of both the House of Representatives and the Senate of the Philippines. Alvarez also made notable contributions as Minister of Agrarian Reform and later as Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources. Throughout his career, he played a crucial role in shaping policies related to agriculture, land reform, and environmental conservation in the Philippines, leaving a lasting impact on the country's political landscape.

Jinggoy Estrada is a Filipino politician and film actor who has served as a senator since 2022. He previously held the position from 2004 to 2016 and is currently the president pro tempore of the Senate. Estrada has also been involved in corruption charges, being detained twice for alleged embezzlement and bribery. Despite these legal challenges, he has continued his political career, seeking re-election to the Senate in 2019 and winning a seat in 2022. Additionally, outside of politics, Estrada has appeared in numerous films in action star roles, winning the Best Actor Award in the 2007 Metro Manila Film Festival.

Ferdinand "Bongbong" Romualdez Marcos Jr., known as PBBM or BBM, is a Filipino politician. He served as a senator from 2010 to 2016 and has held various political positions, including Vice Governor and Governor of Ilocos Norte. Marcos also served as a Representative of Ilocos Norte's 2nd congressional district and was elected Governor of the province twice. He ran for vice president in 2016 and later won the presidential election in 2022. Marcos's political career has been marked by controversy, including allegations of historical negationism and whitewashing his family's past.

Brother Armin Luistro is a Filipino Lasallian Brother with a significant career in education and leadership. He served as the Secretary of Education of the Philippines under President Benigno Aquino III. Luistro has held various roles within the De La Salle Brothers organization, including as a provincial and president of De La Salle University System. He co-founded the De La Salle Catholic University in Indonesia and played a key role in establishing De La Salle Philippines. Luistro is known for his advocacy of the K+12 Basic Education Program in the Philippines.

Imelda Marcos was a Filipino politician who served as the First Lady of the Philippines from 1965 to 1986. During her husband's rule, she ordered the construction of grandiose architectural projects using public funds, earning the reputation of having an "edifice complex." Marcos and her husband were accused of stealing billions from the Filipino people. She was known for living a lavish lifestyle, facing numerous court cases and eventually being convicted of corruption charges. Despite this, she was elected multiple times to the House of Representatives and ran for the presidency unsuccessfully.

Joseph Emilio "Jun" Aguinaldo Abaya is a Filipino politician, lawyer, and military officer. He served as the Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) of the Philippines under President Benigno Aquino III. Abaya was elected to three terms as a member of the Philippine House of Representatives, representing the 1st District of Cavite. He began his career in the Armed Forces of the Philippines before entering politics, eventually becoming chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations and later serving as Secretary of Transportation and Communications.

Sara Duterte-Carpio is a Filipino lawyer and politician who has held various key positions in government. She served as the mayor of Davao City, where she introduced important programs and led the city's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Duterte played a significant role in national politics during her father's presidency and was instrumental in the ouster of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. She was elected as the vice president of the Philippines in 2022 and served in additional roles such as secretary of education and vice chairperson of an anti-insurgency task force before resigning.

Joseph Estrada is a Filipino politician and former actor who had a successful career in both fields. He gained popularity as a film actor, starring in over a hundred films during a three-decade acting career. Estrada also worked as a model, starting at a young age. He transitioned into politics, serving as mayor of San Juan, a senator, vice president under President Ramos, and eventually becoming the 13th President of the Philippines. Estrada faced impeachment and was later sentenced for plunder before being granted a pardon.

Imee Marcos is a Filipino politician and film producer who has held various political positions, including as governor and representative in Ilocos Norte. She has been involved in media projects such as producing films and establishing music festivals. Her political career began during her father's martial law regime, and she has faced legal challenges related to her family's alleged ill-gotten wealth. Despite this, she has won multiple elections and currently serves as a senator in the Philippines.

Tito Sotto, professionally known as Tito Sen, is a Filipino politician, entertainer, and athlete. He served as the 23rd Senate President from 2018 to 2022 and held positions as Senate Majority Leader and Senate Minority Leader. With four terms in the Senate, he tied the record for the longest-serving Senator. Sotto also led the Dangerous Drugs Board and served as Vice Mayor of Quezon City. Beyond politics, he is an accomplished songwriter and co-founded the iconic group VST & Co. He is a popular television host and actor, known for his role in the long-running show Eat Bulaga! Additionally, Sotto represented the Philippines in bowling, winning a bronze medal in the 1978 Asian Games.

Fidel V. Ramos was a Filipino general and politician who served as the 12th president of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998. He was the only career military officer to reach the rank of five-star general/admiral de jure. Ramos played a significant role in revitalizing the Philippine economy during his presidency. Prior to becoming president, he held key positions in the military and in the cabinet of President Corazon Aquino, contributing to the establishment of the Philippine Army's Special Forces and the Philippine National Police Special Action Force.

Ralph Recto is a Filipino politician who has held various significant positions in government, including serving as Secretary of Finance under President Bongbong Marcos. He has also been a representative for Batangas' 6th district, House Deputy Speaker, and a Senator for multiple terms. Recto faced challenges, such as losing his Senate reelection bid due to his involvement in the EVAT law. Despite setbacks, he continued to contribute to economic development by leading the National Economic and Development Authority.

Jejomar Binay is a Filipino lawyer and politician who served as the 13th vice president of the Philippines from 2010 to 2016. He began his career as a human rights lawyer during the Martial Law period, providing legal services to political prisoners. Binay was appointed officer-in-charge of Makati before being elected as mayor for 6 consecutive terms. He also served as chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. Binay later became vice president, holding various roles before resigning due to differences with President Aquino.

Panfilo "Ping" Morena Lacson Sr. is a former Filipino politician and police general who served as a Senator for three terms and was the Director General of the Philippine National Police. Known for his anti-corruption campaigns and high approval ratings, Lacson implemented reforms within the PNP. He played a critical role in President Joseph Estrada's ouster and later served as Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery, focusing on disaster-affected areas. Lacson ran for president in 2004 and 2022, also appearing in action films based on his police career.

Lito Lapid is a Filipino actor turned politician who has held various public offices in the province of Pampanga. He served as vice governor and governor in the 1990s and early 2000s before becoming a Senator in 2004. In 2015, he faced graft charges related to the 2004 Fertilizer Fund scam during his time as governor, but the case was ultimately dismissed in 2016. Lapid has continued his political career, being re-elected as a Senator in 2019.

Antonio "Tony" Veloso Cuenco was a prominent Filipino politician known for his service as a council member for the 2nd District of the Cebu City Council. He also held key positions such as Secretary-General of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) from 2010 to 2013 and as a representative of the 2nd District of Cebu City in the House of Representatives. Cuenco's professional life was marked by his dedication to public service and his contributions to political governance at both local and regional levels.

Eduardo "Danding" Murphy Cojuangco Jr. was a prominent Filipino businessman and politician known for his leadership in the San Miguel Corporation, the largest food and beverage corporation in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. He held key positions within the company, serving as its chairman and CEO. Cojuangco also had a significant impact on the Philippine political landscape, having served as a Philippine ambassador and governor of Tarlac. His business empire once contributed substantially to the country's gross national product, reflecting his influential role in the economy.

Renato "Rene" Luna Cayetano, also known as Compañero, was a prominent Filipino figure in law, media, and politics. He made significant contributions as a lawyer, being involved in various legal cases. As a television presenter and journalist, he hosted a popular program called Compañero y Compañera. In politics, he served as a member of the Regular Batasang Pambansa and later as a Senator. Throughout his career, Rene Cayetano was known for his dedication to public service and his commitment to upholding the law.

Jejomar Erwin "Junjun" Sombillo Binay Jr. is a Filipino politician who served as the mayor of Makati from 2010 to 2015. Despite facing legal challenges and being initially dismissed from office by the Ombudsman of the Philippines, he successfully overturned the decision through the Court of Appeals in 2018. However, he was later permanently banned from holding public office due to charges of grave misconduct, dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service related to the construction of a Makati school building.