MANILA, Philippines — Alan Peter Cayetano defended his recent references to Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino Jr., arguing that no family has an exclusive claim to the late statesman’s legacy.
In a lengthy social media post on Saturday, Cayetano clarified that he was not comparing himself to Aquino or to national heroes such as Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio. Rather, he said he identifies with the principles and causes they championed.
“So let me be clear about Ninoy. No family holds a monopoly on his name because no one holds a monopoly on heroism. Heroism is not inherited; it is earned,” Cayetano said.
His statement came after a progressive group criticized his use of Aquino’s name and the iconic “Laban” hand sign during a Facebook Live broadcast on Friday, describing the move as “laughable, insulting, and delusional.”
Cayetano also defended the Senate’s ongoing investigation into flood control projects, saying the public deserves transparency and accountability in government spending.
“We believe the Filipino people have the right to know what was done with their money, and what was done in their name,” he said.
The senator further cited colleagues whom he said share his commitment to ensuring a fair impeachment process and pursuing the flood control inquiry. These include Loren Legarda, Pia Cayetano, Joel Villanueva, Rodante Marcoleta, Imee Marcos, Robin Padilla, Jinggoy Estrada, Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa, Bong Go, and siblings Mark Villar and Camille Villar.
“Together, we have refused to let the flood control investigation be buried,” Cayetano said.
