Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is the Smartest Philippine President, Says Robin Padilla
ROBIN PADILLA – The actor-turned-senator expressed his admiration and respect for former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., whom he considers a hero and the smartest president in Philippine history.
Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was the 10th President of the Philippines, serving from 1965 to 1986. Born in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, he earned his law degree from the University of the Philippines, topping the bar exams in 1939. Marcos began his political career as a congressman in 1949, later becoming a senator and Senate President before assuming the presidency. His first term was marked by extensive infrastructure projects and economic growth, but his second term saw increasing unrest due to corruption and economic challenges.
In 1972, Marcos declared Martial Law, citing threats of communism and social disorder. This ushered in a period of authoritarian rule, during which he dissolved Congress, ruled by decree, and arrested political opponents. His regime faced accusations of widespread human rights abuses, media censorship, and corruption. Despite these controversies, he remained in power until 1986, when a disputed election against Corazon Aquino led to the People Power Revolution, a peaceful uprising that forced Marcos and his family into exile in Hawaii.
Marcos’s legacy is deeply divisive. While some commend his infrastructure development and leadership, others condemn the economic decline and human rights violations during his regime. In 2016, his remains were controversially buried in the Libingan ng mga Bayani, sparking debates about his place in Philippine history.
In a Facebook post, Robin Padilla expressed his admiration and respect for former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., whom he considers a hero and the smartest president in Philippine history. Padilla declared his lifelong salute to Marcos as his idol and “Supremo.” He also praised former President Rodrigo Duterte for his firm decision to allow Marcos Sr.’s burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, despite opposition.