Streaming now on YouTube and Spotify, Manila Bulletin has launched its podcast series The Sit Down, an original program offering audiences a closer look at today’s key personalities and pressing issues. Kicking off the series is long-serving Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan—farmer-CEO, father, and Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture.
In this premiere episode, Senator Pangilinan shares stories and reflections from life on and off the political stage. Beside him is his wife, the Megastar Sharon Cuneta, making for a candid and heartfelt conversation with host Philip Unjieng.
During the conversation, topics ranged from childhood memories to present advocacies—and even pop culture. Sharon delighted in recounting how the phrase “i-Sharon mo na yan!” (a playful nod to taking home food after gatherings) introduced her to a younger generation, inspired by her iconic line “Balutin mo ako” from the classic Bituing Walang Ningning. But among the many record-breaking songs of the Megastar, Kiko’s personal favorite since his youth has been “Pangako Sa’yo.” In the same spirit, the Senator shared his own “pangako” to the people during his campaign—a promise that led him to join the Majority bloc and champion food security. Now, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, he explained that he is in an even better position to serve.
“I’m just being consistent with what I campaigned for,” Pangilinan explained. “I can understand the vocal segment that opposes it, but the fundamental difference is that they didn’t go around campaigning for food security—I did. So they don’t have that burden—I do.” Pangilinan said.
He clarified that his commitment to food security does not mean compromising on principles. “And that’s why I hope they understand. This has little to do with compromising on our positions on issues because as we’ve shown when the issue requires a principled stand or based on what I believe in, we will take a position.” he added.
A longtime agriculture advocate, Pangilinan stressed how rising food prices are a clear sign that the system is failing—and that urgent reforms are needed. “Given the President’s priorities, there is an opportunity to turn things around. But we must act quickly, which is why I say we’re going to shake things up in the agri sector,” he emphasized.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Pangilinan has already held several dialogues with Agriculture Secretary Kiko Laurel and conducted public hearings in recent weeks as initial steps toward addressing the crisis. Still, he underscored that lasting change will require both the executive and legislative branches to work hand in hand.
Senator Kiko is also gearing up to launch his own podcast soon. The debut episode of The Sit Down premiered on September 8, 2025, on Manila Bulletin’s official YouTube and Spotify channels.