BIOGRAPHY

Manuel Luis Quezon y Molina, born on August 19, 1878, in Baler, Tayabas (now Aurora), was a true champion of Philippine independence. The son of Lucio Quezon Urbina and Maria Dolores Molina, he had two siblings, Teodorico and Pedro. Quezon briefly left his law studies at the University of Santo Tomas in 1899 to join the fight for freedom but returned to complete his degree and pursue a career in law. On November 15, 1935, he became the second President of the Philippines and the first to lead the Commonwealth government, serving until his passing on August 1, 1944. Quezon shared his life with his beloved wife, Aurora Aragon, and together they raised four children: Maria Aurora “Baby,” Maria Zenaida “Nini,” Luisa Corazon Paz “Nenita,” and Manuel L. “Nonong” Quezon Jr. His leadership, vision, and dedication to the Filipino people continue to inspire generations.