Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan officially took his oath of office at 1:00 PM today before Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Marvic Leonen at the Session Hall of the Supreme Court in Manila.

The ceremony marks Pangilinan’s formal return to the Senate, where he is set to push bold and urgent measures to combat hunger, restore public trust, and champion the rights of ordinary Filipinos.

Pangilinan’s decision to take his oath before Justice Leonen was not only a gesture of respect—it was also deeply personal. The two go a long way back: both were student leaders at the University of the Philippines Diliman. Pangilinan served as Chair of the University Student Council while studying law and Leonen led the Law Student Government. Later, when Pangilinan became a Quezon City councilor, Leonen served as his legal officer.

“To be sworn in by Justice Marvic Leonen is an honor and a challenge,” Pangilinan said. “A challenge to live up to the values of integrity, independence, and service—especially at a time when our people are hungry not just for food, but for hope and good governance.”

With food prices still soaring and malnutrition on the rise, Pangilinan reiterated his call for a nationwide feeding program targeting school-age children and vulnerable communities. The proposed program seeks to address hunger while creating a reliable market for Filipino farmers and fisherfolk—a dual solution to food insecurity and rural poverty.

“Walang kulay ang gutom. Walang kulay ang kahirapan. Walang hinihintay ang solusyon. We must act now—and one concrete step is feeding our children while supporting those who grow our food,” he said.

Pangilinan also reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the Constitution and strengthening democratic institutions. In an era of disinformation and deepening public skepticism, he emphasized that lawmakers must be unwavering in defending the rule of law and protecting the integrity of public office.

“The rule of law is the backbone of a just society,” Pangilinan said. “If we are to move forward as a nation, our leaders must not only follow the law—they must also inspire confidence in it.”

His legislative priorities for the 19th Congress include:
• A National Feeding Program to combat child hunger and support local producers
• Stronger implementation of the Sagip Saka Act to uplift farmers and fisherfolk
• Policies to lower food prices and ensure a stable food supply
• Legislative reforms to defend institutions, uphold justice, and demand accountability

As the nation faces a convergence of economic strain and institutional distrust, Pangilinan called on Filipinos from all political colors to unite behind urgent, people-first solutions.

“Hunger knows no politics. Our response shouldn’t either.”

Pangilinan was joined at the ceremony by his wife, singer and actress Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan; his mother, Emma Nepomuceno-Pangilinan; his daughters, Frankie and Miel Pangilinan; and his son, Miguel Pangilinan.

A photo opportunity followed the ceremony. Pangilinan is expected to unveil his full legislative agenda in the coming days.