OPINION
Ed Javier
He Could Have Been A Priest: The Inspiring Journey Of Gregorio 'Gringo' Honasan
Photo credit: Gringo Honasan
Gregorio "Gringo" Honasan III, former military officer, Senator, Cabinet Secretary and rebel, once harbored aspirations of joining the clergy. While life took him down a different path, his journey remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to service—service to God, country, and family.
In an exclusive interview with a veteran journalist recently, Honasan shared insights into his extraordinary life. A man of deep faith, Honasan's early dreams of priesthood were rooted in a desire to lead and uplift others.
Though he eventually chose a different calling, his spiritual foundation has profoundly influenced his approach to public service.
Honasan's passion for his country is undeniable. His journey from military rebel to a prominent political figure showcases a steadfast dedication to the Philippines. Despite the controversies and challenges, Honasan's transformation into a respected statesman highlights his commitment to national progress and stability.
His tenure as a Senator and Cabinet Secretary is marked by efforts to champion security, governance, and development.
Amid protestations that his family will always be second to God and country, he remains a devoted husband and father. His ability to balance these roles speaks volumes about his character and priorities. Honasan's family serves as his anchor, providing strength and motivation in his relentless pursuit of a better future for his country.
In his early years, Honasan considered a career in medicine but, due to financial constraints and the advice of his father, he pivoted towards a military career.
His academic journey took him from the University of the Philippines to the Philippine Military Academy, where he excelled, topping the entrance exam amidst thousands of candidates. This pivotal decision led him to embrace a military life, following in his father’s footsteps and becoming the youngest full colonel in Philippine history at that time.
Honasan's experiences in the military, particularly during his deployment in conflict zones like Isabela and Mindanao, shaped his views on leadership and service. These formative years instilled in him a deep sense of duty and the need to address the systemic issues within the military and the broader governance of the Philippines.
His involvement in the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) and subsequent participation in coup attempts were driven by a desire to fight for the welfare of his fellow soldiers and civilians caught in the crossfire of conflicts.
One of the most significant chapters in Honasan's life was his role in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. This historic event, characterized by its peaceful nature, aimed for good governance and set a global precedent for non-violent revolutions.
Honasan, along with his comrades, defied orders they deemed immoral and illegal, choosing instead to side with the people. His courage and leadership during this time underscored his dedication to meaningful change and reform.
Despite the risks and sacrifices, Honasan's commitment to his ideals remained steadfast. His family, aware of the dangers and challenges, stood by him, understanding the greater purpose behind his actions. Honasan's resilience and faith carried him through the darkest times, including periods of hiding and imprisonment.
Honasan pointed out that times were different. "A coup d'état is intended to seize power. That wasn't our intention. We rebelled because the welfare of our soldiers was neglected. During that time, if you were killed, the benefit your family would receive wasn’t even enough to buy a coffin. We formed the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) because we couldn't accept seeing innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of armed conflict. We fought for reform from 1986, '87, and '89."
"It was not easy being on the run for seven years," he recalled. "President Ramos was with us in 1986. When he took over from President Aquino in 1992, he sent then Human Rights Chairperson Haydee Yorac to find me. She convinced me to stop the coup attempts and work for reform from within. We had peace talks and started working together for reform," Honasan remembered, noting regretfully that both Ramos and Yorac are gone now. "I only have the highest respect for them (Saludo ako sa dalawang yon)."
He further remembers that prior to that, they spoke with then NEDA Secretary Winnie Monsod and asked her if it is true that their coup attempts are bringing down the economy. She told them, "You are not that good to bring down the economy all by yourself. Pinabilis lang ninyo." (You just hastened it).
He emerged from these experiences more compassionate and determined to continue his fight for justice and progress.
Transitioning into politics, Honasan became the first independent candidate to win a national election as a Senator, a testament to his widespread support and the trust people had in his vision. His legislative career focused on enacting reforms and promoting national security, always with the underlying goal of improving the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
Honasan adamantly believes that the Philippines is a "work in progress. Even the powerful and more developed democracies are a work in progress. They continually strive to improve their countries. I wouldn't repeatedly risk my life, career, and family if it weren't for a truly blessed nation," he emphasized.
"Look at the world map. We control the traffic light. Airplanes and ships pass through our territory. They all vie for us. They need us more than we need them. We have the potential to be a center of culture, politics, security, and an economic hub," Honasan stressed.
Honasan's story is a remarkable narrative of redemption and purpose. His life exemplifies the values of faith, patriotism, and familial love, inspiring others to pursue a path of meaningful and dedicated service.
He may not have become a priest, but his life’s work is a ministry of its own, dedicated to the greater good and the unwavering belief in the potential of his nation and its people.
In an exclusive interview with a veteran journalist recently, Honasan shared insights into his extraordinary life. A man of deep faith, Honasan's early dreams of priesthood were rooted in a desire to lead and uplift others.
Though he eventually chose a different calling, his spiritual foundation has profoundly influenced his approach to public service.
Honasan's passion for his country is undeniable. His journey from military rebel to a prominent political figure showcases a steadfast dedication to the Philippines. Despite the controversies and challenges, Honasan's transformation into a respected statesman highlights his commitment to national progress and stability.
His tenure as a Senator and Cabinet Secretary is marked by efforts to champion security, governance, and development.
Amid protestations that his family will always be second to God and country, he remains a devoted husband and father. His ability to balance these roles speaks volumes about his character and priorities. Honasan's family serves as his anchor, providing strength and motivation in his relentless pursuit of a better future for his country.
In his early years, Honasan considered a career in medicine but, due to financial constraints and the advice of his father, he pivoted towards a military career.
His academic journey took him from the University of the Philippines to the Philippine Military Academy, where he excelled, topping the entrance exam amidst thousands of candidates. This pivotal decision led him to embrace a military life, following in his father’s footsteps and becoming the youngest full colonel in Philippine history at that time.
Honasan's experiences in the military, particularly during his deployment in conflict zones like Isabela and Mindanao, shaped his views on leadership and service. These formative years instilled in him a deep sense of duty and the need to address the systemic issues within the military and the broader governance of the Philippines.
His involvement in the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) and subsequent participation in coup attempts were driven by a desire to fight for the welfare of his fellow soldiers and civilians caught in the crossfire of conflicts.
One of the most significant chapters in Honasan's life was his role in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. This historic event, characterized by its peaceful nature, aimed for good governance and set a global precedent for non-violent revolutions.
Honasan, along with his comrades, defied orders they deemed immoral and illegal, choosing instead to side with the people. His courage and leadership during this time underscored his dedication to meaningful change and reform.
Despite the risks and sacrifices, Honasan's commitment to his ideals remained steadfast. His family, aware of the dangers and challenges, stood by him, understanding the greater purpose behind his actions. Honasan's resilience and faith carried him through the darkest times, including periods of hiding and imprisonment.
Honasan pointed out that times were different. "A coup d'état is intended to seize power. That wasn't our intention. We rebelled because the welfare of our soldiers was neglected. During that time, if you were killed, the benefit your family would receive wasn’t even enough to buy a coffin. We formed the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM) because we couldn't accept seeing innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of armed conflict. We fought for reform from 1986, '87, and '89."
"It was not easy being on the run for seven years," he recalled. "President Ramos was with us in 1986. When he took over from President Aquino in 1992, he sent then Human Rights Chairperson Haydee Yorac to find me. She convinced me to stop the coup attempts and work for reform from within. We had peace talks and started working together for reform," Honasan remembered, noting regretfully that both Ramos and Yorac are gone now. "I only have the highest respect for them (Saludo ako sa dalawang yon)."
He further remembers that prior to that, they spoke with then NEDA Secretary Winnie Monsod and asked her if it is true that their coup attempts are bringing down the economy. She told them, "You are not that good to bring down the economy all by yourself. Pinabilis lang ninyo." (You just hastened it).
He emerged from these experiences more compassionate and determined to continue his fight for justice and progress.
Transitioning into politics, Honasan became the first independent candidate to win a national election as a Senator, a testament to his widespread support and the trust people had in his vision. His legislative career focused on enacting reforms and promoting national security, always with the underlying goal of improving the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
Honasan adamantly believes that the Philippines is a "work in progress. Even the powerful and more developed democracies are a work in progress. They continually strive to improve their countries. I wouldn't repeatedly risk my life, career, and family if it weren't for a truly blessed nation," he emphasized.
"Look at the world map. We control the traffic light. Airplanes and ships pass through our territory. They all vie for us. They need us more than we need them. We have the potential to be a center of culture, politics, security, and an economic hub," Honasan stressed.
Honasan's story is a remarkable narrative of redemption and purpose. His life exemplifies the values of faith, patriotism, and familial love, inspiring others to pursue a path of meaningful and dedicated service.
He may not have become a priest, but his life’s work is a ministry of its own, dedicated to the greater good and the unwavering belief in the potential of his nation and its people.
Jul 21, 2024
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
