Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan refuted allegations that his joint efforts with the Marcos administration regarding agricultural programs reflect a compromised stance against corruption, stressing that food security transcends partisan divides.
Pangilinan addressed the controversy after a netizen shared a politically charged image in the comments section of the page “Nutribun Republic”.
The meme contrasted past anti-Marcos opposition rallies labeled “NOON” with an edited or AI-generated visual titled “NGAYON,” which depicted opposition figures adopting a submissive attitude toward President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Directly addressing the commenter through his verified account, Pangilinan maintained that engaging with the current executive leadership on agricultural concerns does not equal relinquishing his personal values.
“Gelo Cruz hindi ibig sabihin na dahil nakikipagtulungan ako sa gobyerno ni Marcos Jr. sa usapin ng agri at food security ay tahimik na at pro corruption na ako,” Pangilinan stated.
The lawmaker, who has consistently focused on farming and fisheries policy, clarified that his collaboration with the government aims to lower food costs and defend local agricultural producers.
“Pro food security ako,” he noted.
Pangilinan also called on critics to direct their efforts toward pragmatic solutions for food affordability rather than interpreting his policy engagement on agriculture as a political concession.
“Sa halip na siraan ako, upang maibaba ang presyo ng pagkain magtulungan tayo,” he urged.