The Legendary Legacy of Quirino

Elpidio Quirino, born into a poor family in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, was a self-made man with a strong will and a burning passion. While attending Vigan High School, the young Elpidio taught in the neighboring town of Caoayan's Barrio Caparia. He earned enough to pay for his transfer to Manila High School, and he continued to work while studying law at the University of the Philippines. He received one of the highest marks in the 1915 Bar Examinations. He started his career as a law clerk for the Philippine Commission before catching the attention of rising politician Manuel L. Quezon, who became his mentor in life and politics. He served in a variety of posts, including congressman, senator, and cabinet secretary, until becoming President Manuel A. Roxas' Vice President in 1946. When Roxas died of a heart attack in 1948, Quirino took over and was elected to his own term the next year. Faced with the challenges of a war-torn and newly independent country, Quirino established the groundwork for our nation and its reconstruction from the ashes of conflict.

Born during the decade of the Philippine revolt, Elpidio's life paralleled the country's history, from revolt against the Spanish and war against the Americans to commonwealth under America, war with the Japanese, and eventual liberation and independence. Elpidio had a significant role throughout the story. His tale has been overlooked and forgotten by our youth. It's a story worth telling and remembering. Elpidio Quirino's narrative is one of hope, inspiration, hatred, forgiveness, difficulty, and triumph. His life and career reflect his cardinal ideals of tolerance, benevolence, and love.