Family, friends, and fans gathered on December 14 to commemorate the 20th death anniversary of Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ), the legendary “King of Philippine Movies.” The solemn day featured a mass at the Manila North Cemetery and the inauguration of the FPJ Ecopark in his hometown, San Carlos City, Pangasinan.
Honoring a Legacy
FPJ’s daughters, Senator Grace Poe and actress Lovi Poe, were joined by his grandson Brian Poe Llamanzares to honor his enduring legacy. Senator Poe highlighted her father’s deep love for Filipinos, saying:
“In his idealism and love for the Filipinos, we are reminded to stay the course because even simple deeds can have an impact in making our people’s lives better.”
FPJ Ecopark: A Tribute to His Spirit
The family attended a mass at the Minor Basilica of Saint Dominic before opening the FPJ Ecopark, also known as the San Carlos City Esplanade, in Barangay Bocboc.
The newly inaugurated ecopark is envisioned as a tourist destination and family space for relaxation, embodying FPJ’s values of togetherness and joy.
“We are grateful to the local government for naming this landmark after FPJ,” said Senator Poe. “Even if he is no longer with us, a place like this reminds us of FPJ’s love for family bonding and enjoyment.”
Brian Poe Llamanzares, chair of the FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list, added, “Lolo showed that everyone has the capacity to explore, imagine, and give back to our country in the path we choose.”
A Life and Legacy Remembered
FPJ’s legacy lives on not only in his iconic films but also through the values of compassion and patriotism he inspired in his family and fans. The launch of the ecopark is a testament to his enduring impact on Filipino culture and community.