‘You have given me a gift far more precious than any—your good name’

Dear Lolo Monching,

If there was one thing I regret most, it is that I never met you. I grew up just hearing stories about you from your children—my father and Tita Mila—a few relatives, some strangers even. I wished then, as I wish every day since, that I had known you, spent time with you and learned from you.

My first images of you were formed through our family’s stories and memories, and enhanced by countless books that recount your history, heroism and leadership. You were able to accomplish so much, in profound ways that I cannot even imagine. Your time was short, yet meaningful.

And this much I know: You were a dutiful son, devoted husband and father, exceptional leader and model public servant. You were also a man of great character and integrity. You wore simple clothes, lived humbly, spoke firmly and acted prudently. You were hardworking, compassionate, and most of all, authentic.

You seemed like a great guy. It’s no surprise to me why many Filipinos consider you the best President in our country’s history. The GOAT, in Gen Z parlance. The kid in me would simply say, you would have been an awesome grandfather to me.

I admire you for your resilience in the face of adversity, your unwavering faith in the face of uncertainty and your unconditional love for your family—qualities that I endeavor to apply in my own life.

I never had the opportunity to meet you in person, but our familial bond remains strong and constant, and you have made such an impact on my life despite your absence. I strive to live by the core values that you hold important, like honesty, integrity and hard work.

Although we had never spent time together, as most grandparents and grandchildren do, I know that your wisdom guides me in all my decisions, and your spirit emboldens me to stand up for what is right and just.

I never had the chance to hear your voice or speak with you, but I feel your presence in all things good and decent. I can see pieces of you in the faces of my family members, especially Dad, who, I think, really takes after you, since he spent the first 18 years of his life witnessing your example.

Sometimes, I wonder what it would have been like if you were around. I imagine the conversations we would have had, the things we would have enjoyed doing together, and our regular Sunday family lunches if you had been there. I want to tell you that you now have great-grandchildren and I am also a grandparent myself. We miss you.

I may not have known you, but like you, I believe in certain ideals that you value most—the love of country and family, solid integrity, hard work and commitment to serve others.

I hope you can hear me when I speak to you in my thoughts and prayers, and that somehow, in some spiritual way, you know that a piece of my heart is missing when I think of you. You may be gone, but never truly forgotten.

I wish I had the chance to tell you these things in person, to express my love and admiration for you face to face. I know that is impossible, and this letter may not be enough to fully express my appreciation for all that you have done for our family and country.

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I promise to carry on your legacy and live my life in a way that will bring you absolute joy and pride. You have given me a gift far more precious than money or material possessions—your good name. I promise that I will continue to protect it every day so I may honor you as you rightly deserve.

Thank you, Lolo Monching, for the legend you truly are, and for the enduring legacy you left behind. I know that you are watching over us. I look forward to meeting you when it is my time. We have a lot of catching up to do, and I will make sure to bring a cup or two of Carmen’s Best Ice Cream to share with you.

With love and gratitude,

Paco

——

Francisco “Paco” Magsaysay is a grandson of President Ramon Magsaysay, who died in a plane crash in 1957, when Paco’s father, former senator Ramon “Jun” Magsaysay Jr., was 18. Paco is the founder of the premium ice cream brand Carmen’s Best.