President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he has never once regretted assuming the country’s highest office, describing the presidency as the “greatest privilege” of his life despite the immense challenges it carries.
In the latest episode of his podcast released Sunday, Sept. 7, Marcos was asked if he ever felt regret about becoming president. “No. Not for one moment,” he firmly responded. For him, the role offers a chance to act rather than merely complain. “Because I am given the opportunity to actually – the privilege, the opportunity, and the chance to actually do something,” he explained.
The President admitted that seeing corruption take away from ordinary Filipinos leaves him “very, very angry.” He recounted how hardworking citizens, many of whom sacrifice daily just to support their families, are robbed of their earnings for the luxury of a few. “Walang ginawa ito kung hindi magtrabaho… just to be able to send money home, feed their family, send their children to school. Kukunin niyo pa sa kanila yun para bumili ng Rolls-Royce?” Marcos said, visibly emotional.
He acknowledged that corruption has left many disillusioned, even pushing some to apply for foreign citizenship. Still, he urged Filipinos not to lose faith. “There’s hope. Have hope. We’ve seen all of what people are complaining about or having to live with,” he assured.
Marcos admitted the fight against corruption is deeply entrenched, calling it “kalawang” and “bulok” that has corroded the system over time. But he promised reforms are underway and stressed that accountability will not spare even allies. “We’re making an omelet. We’re going to have to break some eggs. There’s just no way around it,” he said.
The President made it clear that his loyalty lies with the Filipino people above anyone else. “Who’s more important? Your friend? Your political supporter? Or every single ordinary Filipino citizen? To me, it’s the Filipino citizen,” he declared. “Nobody is more important than Filipinos. Nobody, nobody, not one person is more important. Not me, not anybody.”
Holding back emotion, Marcos said what pains him most is seeing people suffer when they do not deserve it. “I see people having a hard time. And they don’t deserve it… Ba’t mo paparusahan? Para magpayaman ka? Makes no sense to me,” he said.
