Elpidio Quirino

Elpidio Quirino, born on November 16, 1890, in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, was a prominent Filipino politician who served as the 6th president of the Philippines from 1948 to 1953. He came from a well-educated but modest family and earned his law degree from the University of the Philippines in 1915. Quirino began his career as a lawyer and quickly entered politics, serving as a member of the House of Representatives and later the Senate. During World War II, he became an active figure in the underground resistance against the Japanese occupation. After the war, Quirino was appointed Secretary of Finance, where he played a crucial role in the economic recovery of the Philippines. Following the death of President Manuel Roxas, Quirino assumed the presidency in 1948. His leadership focused on post-war reconstruction, securing American aid, strengthening the country’s foreign relations, and promoting social reforms. His administration saw significant economic progress, though it was also marked by...