FPJ remembered at 21st death anniversary

MANILA, December 15 ------ Family members and supporters of “Da King” Fernando Poe Jr. remembered the late film icon not only for his storied career but also for the compassion that defined his life off-screen as they gathered for a mass commemorating the 21st anniversary of his death.

Former Senator Grace Poe, daughter of the late actor, thanked those who continue to honor her father through prayers and remembrance, emphasizing that FPJ’s legacy was rooted in genuine love and concern for Filipinos.

“Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat sa patuloy na pagdasal sa kanya. Si FPJ hindi tumagal na sikat dahil magaling, siya po ay minahal ng ating kababayan dahil alam nila sa tunay na buhay, siya ay totoong nagmahal sa kapwa,” she said in her speech during the event held at the Manila North Cemetery Sunday. “Siya ay tumulong at di nagpaalam sa marami. Noong nagbaha sa Quezon kahit kakatalo lang, nag-iimpake sila sa studio ng relief goods. May lumapit kay FPJ at sabi pa-picture tayo pakita natin. Sabi ni FPJ huwag na huwag gawing pagkakataon sumikat ang kahirapan ng kababayan. Nagalit siya,” she added.

Partylist Representative Brian Poe Llamanzares, Poe’s son, said the annual commemoration reflects how his grandfather's influence continues to unite people across different sectors of society. “Andito iba ibang sektor, mga grupo ng solo parents, kabataan — hindi naging base sa isang sector lamang o edad ang supporta at pagmamahal kay FPJ. Taon taon dumadami pa fans at nagmahal kay FPJ. Naging cong. ako dahil kay FPJ, hindi Brian ang nanalo, FPJ ang nanalo. At ibig sabihin nito buhay ang legacy niya,” he said.

Veteran actor Rez Cortez also paid tribute during the gathering, recalling FPJ’s significance to Philippine cinema and to the hopes of many Filipinos. “Nandito tayo sa 21st death anniversary sa ating mahal na pangulo, siya ang dapat 14th president of the Philippines. Sa kasamaang palad, di siya naluklok ng Pilipino. Siya ang hari ng pelikulang Pilipino at hari ng ating buhay, dahil sana meron tayong bagong pag-asa,” he noted.

Longtime fans also shared how “Da King’s” legacy continues to resonate across generations. “Malaki ambag niya sa industriya, malaking bahagi ng pelikula at iniidolo hangang ngayon. Kahit sino walang malimot sa nag-iisang hari. Hindi lang sa galing pero sa inspirasyon na binigay sa bata o matanda noon hangang ngayon,” Joanna Lyn Alpiendo said.

Source: news.abs-cbn.com