Querubin honors women’s sacrifices in war, meets Lanao del Norte families

LANAO DEL NORTE—Independent senatorial candidate Ariel Querubin paid tribute to the wives and families of fallen soldiers during a meeting with women’s groups in Kauswagan and Linamon on March 10, recalling the sacrifices they endured in the aftermath of war.

Querubin, a retired Marine officer and Medal of Valor awardee, reflected on his time in Lanao del Norte, where he led troops in the 2000 Battle of Kauswagan against more than 300 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters. The battle, one of the fiercest in the region, left many soldiers dead and families grieving.

“Malapit ako sa mga kababaihan dahil yung mga naiwan ng mga tao ko na pamilya, yung mga tinamaan dito sa Kauswagan, mga katabi ko yung mga tinamaan doon. Sila yung sumalo ng bala na dapat para sakin,” Querubin said.

Querubin recalled how the widows of fallen soldiers carried the burden of raising families on their own.

“Kaya pag naiinterbyu tayo, everytime na maalala ko yan, makita ninyo yung mga interviews ko, halos lahat, sabi siguro nila, iyakin yung Ariel Querubin. Talagang naluluha tayo dahil ang hirap nung ginampanan ng mga misis na iniwan nitong mga tao ko na namatay,” he added.

Querubin also shared his experience of being away from his family, acknowledging the challenges military wives face.

“Nung palagi akong wala, sino yung nagtataguyod sa mga anak ko? I have seven children. Misis ko rin,” he said.

Earlier that day, Querubin met with Lanao del Norte First District Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo, who recalled Querubin’s role in defending Lanao del Norte and expressed support for his Senate bid.

“He spent time here in our province. He defended the people of Lanao del Norte. So para sa akin, may utang na loob kami sa kanya. When the time comes, I hope, this coming election, people will not forget his sacrifice,” Rep. Dimaporo said.

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Photo Courtesy of Querubin Campaign Team