Kiko Aquino Dee
Kiko Aquino Dee | |
|---|---|
| Born | Francis Joseph Aquino Dee |
| Nationality | Filipino |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Political analyst |
| Known for | Political commentary, academic work |
| Parent | Viel Aquino-Dee (mother) |
| Relatives | Aquino family |
Francis Joseph "Kiko" Aquino Dee is a Filipino political analyst and member of the prominent Aquino political family. As the grandson of former Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. and former President Corazon Aquino, he has been active in political commentary and historical preservation efforts in the Philippines.
Early life and education
Aquino Dee is the son of Victoria Elisa "Viel" Aquino-Dee, one of the four children of the late politicians Ninoy Aquino and Corazon Aquino. This familial connection makes him part of one of the Philippines' most prominent political families.[1]
He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 2012, followed by a Master of Science in Political Science and Political Economy from the London School of Economics in 2014.
Public commentary and political views
On historical memory and democracy
Aquino Dee has been vocal about preserving accurate historical narratives of the Philippines' democratic struggle. He has emphasized remembering the EDSA Revolution while cautioning against its politicization in contemporary conflicts.[2][3]
Opposition to historical revisionism
Aquino Dee has spoken against attempts to revise Philippine history, particularly regarding the Marcos dictatorship. He has encouraged younger Filipinos to combat disinformation by verifying facts and upholding democratic values.[4]
Views on contemporary politics
Aquino Dee has maintained that the Aquino family should remain neutral in political conflicts. In 2024, he stated that the family legacy should not be involved in the Duterte-Marcos political rivalry.[5]
Criticism of national symbols redesign
In December 2024, Aquino Dee criticized the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' redesign of Philippine peso bills, arguing that removing historical figures diminished recognition of national heroes' contributions.[6]
Personal life
Aquino Dee is first cousins, once-removed, with Senator Bam Aquino. Their family connection stems from being grandchildren of former President Corazon Aquino and Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., with Bam being the son of their son Paul Aquino.[7]
References
- ^ Micah Avry Guiao (February 26, 2025). "Meet the New Generation Aquino Keeping the EDSA Memory Alive".
- ^ Jason Sigales (March 12, 2025). "'Not fitting' to call for People Power over Duterte arrest - Aquino kin".
- ^ Paterno R. Esmaquel II (March 12, 2025). "Listen to both Duterte critics and supporters, says Aquino grandson".
- ^ Dona Z. Pazzibugan, Krixia Subingsubing (November 28, 2022). "Ninoy's grandchildren: Fight vs disinformation starts with us".
- ^ GMA Integrated News (November 27, 2024). "Ninoy's grandson: Keep Aquino family out of Duterte-Marcos discord".
- ^ "Aquino grandson blasts new banknote designs: 'Betrayal of our heroes' sacrifices'". December 20, 2024.
- ^ "The Aquino Cousins: Keeping the Legacy Alive". Philippine Daily Inquirer. June 12, 2023.