Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay

Seventh President of the Philippines
30 December 1953 – 17 March 1957

 

Ramon del Fierro Magsaysay was the seventh president of the Philippines. President Magsaysay’s life is a testament to man’s ability to harness his greatness of spirit. He was one of the most outstanding global leaders of his time.

Servant Leader with a Vision of Hope

Pres. Ramon Magsaysay commanded the admiration, respect and affection of people because he was a simple, humble man; because he cared for all people as individuals and believed in their dignity and importance; and because he had the courage of his convictions.

His objective was to improve the lot of his fellow Filipinos and he approached the task with selfless devotion. He was convinced that the government, to last and to be sound, must have integrity and reflect the will of the people.

A man of greatness of spirit, he saw his fellow human beings born with the right to live in liberty and happiness. He was angered at injustice and the violation of high principles. He worked to build a nation—a world—in which all people were free and lived in honor and peace with one another.

The world is richer and better because Ramon Magsaysay lived. His spirit will continue to be an inspiration. He exemplifies the highest type of leadership.

The Magsaysay Credo

  1. I believe that government starts at the bottom and moves upward, for government exists for the welfare of the masses of the nation.
  2. I believe that he who has less in life should have more in law.
  3. I believe that the little man is fundamentally entitled to a little bit more food in his stomach, a little more cloth in his back and a little more roof over his head.
  4. I believe that this nation is endowed with a vibrant and stout heart, and possesses untapped capabilities and incredible resiliency.
  5. I believe that a high and unwavering sense of morality should pervade all spheres of governmental activity.
  6. I believe that the pulse of government should be strong and steady, and the men at the helm imbued with missionary zeal.
  7. I believe in the majesty of constitutional and legal processes, in the inviolability of human rights.
  8. I believe that the free world is collectively strong, and that there is neither need or reason to compromise the dignity of man.
  9. I believe that communism is iniquity, as is the violence it does to the principles of Christianity.
  10. I believe that the President should set the example of a big heart, an honest mind, sound instincts, the virtue of healthy impatience and an abiding love for the common man.