Remembering ‘My Guy’

Yesterday (Sunday) was the 56th death anniversary of President Ramon Magsaysay (“servant leader” in the language of Dr. Jose V. Abueva). Magsaysay is still “My Guy.” No other president has approximated his genuine concern and love for the poor, the marginalized sector of society. His government service credo, “He who has less in life should have more in law,” was not a mere PR slogan or empty rhetoric. He breathed life into it through his actions.

In government transactions, being a relative (either by consanguinity or affinity) was a disadvantage during his time. Transparency and openness in government actions were always subjected to a basic, standard test: “Can we defend this in Plaza Miranda?” Because he meant what he said, he was able to restore the people’s faith and confidence in government. To my mind, this legacy is beyond any pecuniary value.

As if there is truth to the saying that “the good die young,” Magsaysay died before he reached 50.

RM, we love you.

—PIO P. FRAGO,

retired director, UP HRDO,

[email protected]