:Francis Pangilinan

{{Requested move notice|1=Kiko Pangilinan|2=Talk:Francis Pangilinan#Requested move 13 May 2025}}

{{Infobox officeholder

| image = senkikopangilinan.jpg

| image_size = 220px

| caption = Official portrait, 2019

| name = Francis Pangilinan

| office = Senator-elect of the Philippines

| termstart = June 30, 2025

| succeeding = N/A

| office1 = Senator of the Philippines

| termstart1 = June 30, 2016

| termend1 = June 30, 2022

| termstart2 = June 30, 2001

| termend2 = June 30, 2013

| office3 = Chair of the Senate Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes Committee

| term_start3 = 2018

| term_end3 = June 30, 2022

| predecessor3 = Franklin Drilon

| successor3 = Robin Padilla

| office4 = Senate Majority Leader

| predecessor4 = Loren Legarda

| successor4 = Migz Zubiri

| termstart4 = January 12, 2004

| termend4 = November 17, 2008

| office5 = Chair of the Senate Agriculture and Food Committee

| term_start5 = July 25, 2016

| term_end5 = February 27, 2017

| predecessor5 = Cynthia Villar

| successor5 = Cynthia Villar

| term_start6 = July 26, 2010

| term_end6 = June 30, 2013

| predecessor6 = Loren Legarda

| successor6 = Cynthia Villar

| office7 = Chair of the Senate Agrarian Reform Committee

| term_start7 = February 2, 2009

| term_end7 = June 30, 2010

| predecessor7 = Gregorio Honasan

| successor7 = Gregorio Honasan

| office8 = Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization

| president8 = Benigno Aquino III

| term_start8 = May 6, 2014

| term_end8 = September 15, 2015

| predecessor8 = Position established

| successor8 = Fredelita Guiza

| office9 = Member of the Quezon City Council from the 4th district

| term_start9 = June 30, 1988

| term_end9 = June 30, 1992

| office10 = Chairperson of the Liberal Party

| term_start10 = June 30, 2022

| term_end10 =

| predecessor10 = Leni Robredo

| office11 = 16th President of the Liberal Party

| term_start11 = August 8, 2016

| term_end11 = September 30, 2022

| predecessor11 = Jun Abaya

| successor11 = Edcel Lagman

| birth_name = Francis Pancratius Nepomuceno Pangilinan

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1963|08|24}}

| birth_place = Manila, Philippines

| party = Liberal (2001–present)

| otherparty = LDP (1988–1992)
Independent (1992–2001)

| spouse = {{marriage|Sharon Cuneta|1996}}

| relations = KC Concepcion (step-daughter)
Pablo Cuneta (father-in-law)
Helen Gamboa (aunt-in-law)
Maricel Laxa (sister-in-law)
Gary Valenciano (brother-in-law)
Donny Pangilinan (nephew)
Gab Valenciano (nephew)
Kiana Valenciano (niece)
Chito Miranda (nephew)

| children = 3, {{abbr|incl.|including}} Kakie

| residence = Ayala Westgrove Heights

| alma_mater = University of the Philippines Diliman (BA, LL.B)
Harvard University (MPA)

| profession = Lawyer

| website = {{URL|https://kikopangilinan.com/|Official website}}

| occupation = {{hlist|Politician|entrepreneur}}

| signature = Francis 'kiko' pangilinan signature.svg

}}

Francis Pancratius "Kiko" Nepomuceno Pangilinan ({{IPA|tl|paŋɪˈlinan|}}; born August 24, 1963) is a Filipino lawyer, politician, and farm owner who is a senator-elect of the Philippines. He previously served as senator from 2001 to 2013 and from 2016 to 2022 and was the Senate majority floor leader from 2004 to 2008.

A graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Law and the Harvard Kennedy School, Pangilinan began his political career as the youngest elected councilor of Quezon City, serving from 1988 to 1992, and later founded the National Movement of Young Legislators. He then worked as a television and radio host for ABS-CBN, notably co-hosting the public service program Hoy Gising! (1993–1997) as a legal expert.

During his first two Senate terms, Pangilinan authored landmark legislation such as a juvenile justice law that has since been called the "Pangilinan Law" and an organic farming protection law. After serving as Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization under President Benigno Aquino III from 2014 to 2015, he returned to the Senate for a third term in 2016. Throughout his career, Pangilinan has strongly advocated for agriculture and food security, authoring the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 and the Sagip Saka Act ({{translation|Save the Farm Act}}) of 2019, both aimed at supporting small-scale farmers and modernizing agricultural productivity.

Pangilinan served as president of the Liberal Party during his third Senate term from 2016 to 2022, emerging as a prominent opposition figure during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte. He consistently criticized policies he viewed as undermining democratic institutions, including the war on drugs, attempts to reinstate the death penalty, and proposals for constitutional amendments that could extend term limits.

In the 2022 national elections, Pangilinan ran for vice president as the running mate of Vice President Leni Robredo. He was defeated by Sara Duterte, the daughter of Rodrigo Duterte. He returned to media briefly in 2024, hosting public affairs programs focusing on agriculture and grassroots issues. Pangilinan was re-elected to the Senate in the 2025 elections, emphasizing food security and farmers' welfare in his campaign. He is married to actress and singer Sharon Cuneta, with whom he runs an organic family farm in Cavite.

Early life and education

Francis Pancratius Nepomuceno Pangilinan was born on August 24, 1963, to Donato Tongol Pangilinan Jr., an engineer and entrepreneur from Pampanga, and Emma Monasterial Nepomuceno, a public school teacher from Nueva Ecija and Marinduque.{{cite web |title=Eleksyon 2025 Candidate's Profile: Kiko Pangilinan |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/eleksyon/2025/candidates/kiko-pangilinan/ |access-date=May 4, 2025 |website=GMA News Online}} He has eight siblings.{{cite news|title=Restaurant-style dishes from Anthony Pangilinan|url=https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/food-and-leisure/2004/04/22/247200/restaurant-style-dishes-anthony-pangilinan|access-date=February 23, 2022|newspaper=The Philippine Star|date=April 22, 2004}}

Pangilinan completed his primary and secondary education at La Salle Green Hills in 1977 and 1981, respectively. During school breaks, his father regularly assigned him and his siblings tasks in their family businesses. At their Manila Pearl furniture factory, Pangilinan worked as a timekeeper as a child and became a project coordinator by age 19.{{cite news|last=Quimpo-Espino|first=Margie|title=Father creates environment to raise entrepreneurial kids|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=H342AAAAIBAJ&sjid=hCUMAAAAIBAJ&pg=2474%2C23481337|access-date=January 27, 2023|newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer|publisher=The Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inc.|date=February 18, 2001|page=B7}} He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, majoring in Comparative Literature, from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman, where he was also a varsity athlete on the UP Men's Volleyball Team.{{Cite web|title=The Spiking Senator - Photo Release|url=http://legacy.senate.gov.ph/photo_release/2008/0715_00.asp|website=The Senate of the Philippines}}

As a freshman law student at the University of the Philippines College of Law, Pangilinan was elected chairperson of the UP Diliman University Student Council in 1986 and served as student regent on the UP Board of Regents in 1987.{{Cite web|title=Senator Kiko Pangilinan - Resume|url=http://legacy.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/pangilinan_resume.asp|website=Senate of the Philippines}} He was a member of Upsilon Sigma Phi.{{Cite news|last=Porcalla|first=Delon|title=Law frats also in spotlight at CJ trial|newspaper=The Philippine Star|url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2012/01/30/772271/law-frats-also-spotlight-cj-trial|access-date=February 23, 2022}}{{cite web|title=CEU Law dean leads Upsilon UNO awardees|url=http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/09/ceu-law-dean-leads-upsilon-uno-awardees|access-date=September 2, 2017|website=Manila Bulletin News|archive-date=September 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903074033/http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/09/ceu-law-dean-leads-upsilon-uno-awardees/|url-status=dead}} He subsequently earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from the UP College of Law.{{Cite web|title=Resume of Senator Pangilinan - Senate of the Philippines|url=https://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/pangilinan_resume.asp|access-date=July 12, 2020|website=www.senate.gov.ph}}

Throughout his time at UP Diliman, Pangilinan was active in the Sandigan para sa Mag-Aaral at Sambayanan (SAMASA; {{translation|Support for Students and the People}}), a student political party prominent in the anti‐Marcos movement of that era.{{cite web |title=Fellow ex-student activists honor Pangilinan for 'commitment, consistency' in public service |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2016/0731_pangilinan2.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 26, 2025 |date=July 31, 2016}}

In 1997, Pangilinan moved to Massachusetts, United States, to pursue a Master of Public Administration at Harvard Kennedy School, where he graduated with a general average of A–.[https://web.archive.org/web/20070103182044/http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/pangilinan_bio.htm Senator Kiko Pangilinan]. Senate of the Philippines.

Government career

= Quezon City Council (1988–1992) =

In 1988, while a law student, Pangilinan ran successfully for the Quezon City Council, representing the 4th district. At age 24, he became the youngest person ever elected to that council.{{cite web|url=https://www.responsiblebusiness.com/speakers/francis-pangilinan/|title=FRANCIS PANGILINAN|website=Responsible Business|access-date=January 22, 2021}} He served a single term (1988–1992), during which he was chosen to serve as Minority Leader of the council in 1991–1992. Among the ordinances that Pangilinan filed was Ordinance NC-36, S-88 in 1988, which created contractual staff positions for council offices.{{cite web |title=Ordinance No. NC-36, S-88 |url=https://libros.quezoncitypubliclibrary.org/items/1c4b0796-d5b6-4817-a34c-d0a642ee5a4c/full |publisher=Quezon City Public Library |access-date=May 28, 2025}} In 1991–1992, he also helped found and became the first national president of the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL), a federation of local youth legislators.{{cite web |title=Former Senator Kiko Pangilinan with National Movement for Young Legislators (NMYL) members of QC Council |url=https://quezoncity.gov.ph/courtesy-visit-of-former-sen-kiko-pangilinan/ |publisher=Quezon City Government |access-date=May 5, 2025 |date=January 20, 2025}} Pangilinan was awarded the "Most Outstanding Councilor" award by the Quezon City Press Association in both 1989 and 1990.

= 1992 congressional campaign =

Pangilinan ran for representative of Quezon City's 4th congressional district in the 1992 elections, but lost to Feliciano Belmonte Jr. (who later became the 18th Speaker of the House of Representatives).{{cite news |title=Kiko Pangilinan shares life's unexpected turns in Toni Gonzaga's show |url=https://manilastandard.net/showbitz/314563648/kiko-pangilinan-shares-lifes-unexpected-turns-in-toni-gonzagas-show.html |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Manila Standard |date=March 2, 2025}}

= Senate (2001–2013) =

File:Senator Francis Pangilinan in 2012.jpg

Pangilinan was elected to the Senate in 2001, placing eighth (out of 12 winning candidates) with 10,971,896 votes, and was re-elected in 2007, placing fifth with 14,534,678 votes. In the 2001 election, he ran under the People Power Coalition of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

In 2002, he and then-National Youth Commission chair Bam Aquino co-founded the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards, an annual national program recognizing outstanding youth groups across the country.{{Cite press release|title=Kiko awards Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO)|url=http://legacy.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2006/0814_pangilinan1.asp|access-date=March 27, 2021|website=legacy.senate.gov.ph}}

He was first elected Senate Majority Leader in 2004 during the 13th Congress and was re-elected to the position on July 23, 2007, following the election of Manny Villar as Senate President and Jinggoy Estrada as Senate President Pro Tempore at the opening of the 14th Congress.{{cite news |title=Report: Jinggoy, Pangilinan, Pimentel elected as new Senate officers |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2007/07/23/7832/report-jinggoy-pangilinan-pimentel-elected-new-senate-officers |access-date=May 5, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=July 23, 2007}}

Pangilinan was the principal author of the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006 (Republic Act No. 9344), which established a separate justice system for minors. The law set the minimum age of criminal responsibility at 15 years and created the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council under the Department of Justice (DOJ) to rehabilitate youth offenders instead of imprisoning them. This reform has often been nicknamed the "Pangilinan Law".{{cite web |title=Did Pangilinan law produce a generation of criminals? |url=https://verafiles.org/articles/vera-files-fact-check-did-pangilinan-law-produce-generation |website=Vera Files |access-date=May 9, 2025 |date=January 20, 2017}} In later years, some officials (including President Rodrigo Duterte) criticized the law and blamed it for perceived rises in juvenile delinquency. Pangilinan defended the measure, arguing that its poor implementation (such as the lack of funding for youth rehabilitation centers) was the issue, and urging authorities to target adult criminal syndicates who exploit children rather than jailing the minors themselves.{{cite news |last1=Bordey |first1=Hana |title=Kiko defends Juvenile Justice Act: Jail the syndicates, not the children |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/815660/kiko-defends-juvenile-justice-act-jail-the-syndicates-not-the-children/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=December 23, 2021}}

In 2008, Pangilinan created the Judicial Executive Legislative Advisory and Consultative Council (JELACC), a body first proposed during the Manila Hotel summit on extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances held on July 16–17, 2007.{{cite news |last1=Legaspi |first1=Amita |title=Gov't forms Jelac to boost tripartite relations |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/94881/gov-t-forms-jelac-to-boost-tripartite-relations/story/ |access-date=May 5, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=May 13, 2008}}

On November 17, 2008, Pangilinan resigned as Senate Majority Leader amid a leadership reorganization in the chamber.{{cite news |last1=See |first1=Aie Balagtas |title=Pangilinan resigns as Senate majority leader |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/134033/pangilinan-resigns-as-senate-majority-leader/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=November 17, 2008}} This change was precipitated by Villar's resignation as Senate President in the face of an imminent no-confidence vote. Senators Juan Ponce Enrile and Migz Zubiri were subsequently elected Senate President and Senate Majority Leader, respectively.{{cite news |last1=Allauigan |first1=Bernard U. |title=Administration lawmakers lead Senate |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/134334/administration-lawmakers-lead-senate/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=November 19, 2008}}

In 2010, he chaired the Senate Committee on Agriculture, during which he authored the Organic Agriculture Act of 2010. The law aimed to promote the development of organic agricultural practices and protect indigenous organic farmers in the Philippines.{{Cite web|title=18th Congress|url=https://kikopangilinan.com/18th-congress/|access-date=March 27, 2021|website=Official Website of Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan|language=en-US}}

Pangilinan voted against Senate Bill No. 2796, which later became the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (RA No. 10175). He was one of only two senators—alongside TG Guingona—who opposed the measure.{{cite news |last1=Ager |first1=Maila |title=Sen. Pangilinan clarifies: I didn't vote for the anti-cybercrime law |url=https://technology.inquirer.net/17908/sen-pangilinan-clarifies-i-didnt-vote-for-the-anti-cybercrime-law#! |access-date=May 30, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=October 3, 2012}}

He voted in favor of Senate Bill No. 2865, which later became the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012 (RA No. 10354; "Reproductive Health Law"). He stated that sexual and reproductive health was a necessary step to promote maternal health and responsible parenthood.{{cite news |last1=Ager |first1=Maila |title=Senate votes 13-8 for RH bill on final reading |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/325857/senate-passes-rh-bill |access-date=May 19, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=December 17, 2012}}

= Aquino cabinet (2014–2015) =

In May 2014, President Benigno Aquino III appointed Pangilinan as Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (PAFSAM), a newly-created cabinet-level position under the Office of the President.{{cite news |date=May 5, 2014 |title=Pangilinan appointed presidential assistant on food security |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/599795/pangilinan-appointed-presidential-assistant-on-food-security |access-date=August 15, 2015 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer}} As PAFSAM, Pangilinan was tasked to improve farm sector agencies. He took charge of the National Food Authority (NFA), the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), and the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) to address rice supply, irrigation, and coconut farmer issues.{{cite news |last1=Domingo |first1=Ronnel |title=NFA, PCA heads quit to let Pangilinan start on clean slate |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/601590/nfa-pca-heads-quit-to-let-pangilinan-start-on-clean-slate |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=May 12, 2014}}

During his tenure, Pangilinan advocated for the establishment of a coco levy trust fund to benefit coconut farmers, seeking to address the long-standing issues stemming from the Coco Levy Fund scam. The scam involved the collection of levies from coconut farmers during the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos, allegedly for industry development, but the funds were misused by Marcos and his cronies.{{cite news |last1=Mallari |first1=Delfin T. Jr. |title=Pangilinan: Coco levy won't be used in war vs pest |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/610254/pangilinan-coco-levy-wont-be-used-in-war-vs-pest |access-date=May 5, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=June 10, 2024}}

In September 2015, Pangilinan resigned from the position to run for senator in the 2016 elections.{{cite news|last1=Nicolas|first1=Fiona|title=Pangilinan quits as food security chief|url=http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/09/15/Food-security-secretary-presidential-assistant-francis-kiko-pangilinan-quits.html|access-date=October 1, 2015|work=CNN Philippines|date=September 15, 2015|archive-date=October 3, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151003140203/http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/09/15/Food-security-secretary-presidential-assistant-francis-kiko-pangilinan-quits.html|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|title=Pangilinan quits as food security chief, eyes Senate seat|url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/09/15/15/pangilinan-quits-food-security-chief-eyes-senate-seat|access-date=December 13, 2021|work=ABS-CBN News|date=September 15, 2015}}

= Senate (2016–2022) =

File:Manny Pacquiao with Kiko Pangilinan.jpg in 2016.]]

Pangilinan won a third term in the Senate in the 2016 elections, placing eighth overall with 15,955,949 votes. He ran under the Koalisyon ng Daang Matuwid of presidential candidate Mar Roxas.{{Cite web|title=2016 Senatorial Election Results {{!}} Philippines|url=https://ph.rappler.com/elections/2016/results/philippines/position/3/senator|access-date=2022-02-06|website=Rappler|archive-date=February 6, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206090956/https://ph.rappler.com/elections/2016/results/philippines/position/3/senator|url-status=dead}}

In October 2016, he was appointed interim president of the Liberal Party, succeeding former Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya.{{cite news |title=Pangilinan is new LP president |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2025/5/9/fitch-unit-keeps-2025-ph-growth-forecast-1139 |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=November 6, 2016}} His appointment was made permanent in August 2017.{{cite news |last1=Ballaran |first1=Jhoanna |title=Pangilinan is LP president, Robredo is party chair |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/921783/leni-robredo-liberal-party-francis-kiko-pangilinan |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=August 10, 2017}}

Originally part of the Senate majority of the 17th Congress, Pangilinan joined the minority bloc on February 27, 2017, alongside Senators Bam Aquino, Leila de Lima, Franklin Drilon, Risa Hontiveros, and Antonio Trillanes.{{cite news|url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/162710-senate-revamp-ouster-liberal-party-senators|first=Camille|last=Elemia|title=Senate ousts Drilon, LP senators from key posts|website=Rappler|date=February 27, 2017|access-date=October 22, 2019}}

Pangilinan was among the co-authors of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (Republic Act No. 10931), which made tuition and other mandatory fees free for students in state universities, colleges, and technical-vocational institutions. This landmark law, championed primarily by Senator Bam Aquino, was co-sponsored by Pangilinan along with many of his colleagues across party lines.{{cite web |last1=Chua |first1=Jardine |title=Senate oks free tuition for students |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2017/0313_prib3.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 9, 2025 |date=March 13, 2017}} After initial concerns about its budgetary impact were overcome, President Rodrigo Duterte signed RA No. 10931 into law in August 2017.{{cite news |last1=Mendez |first1=Christina |title=Duterte signs law on free college tuition |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/08/04/1725170/duterte-signs-law-free-college-tuition |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=August 4, 2017}} Pangilinan, along with other sponsors, emphasized that the law was in line with the constitutional mandate to make education accessible to all.

Pangilinan co-authored the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, signed into law by President Duterte as RA No. 10929 in August 2017. The law mandates the establishment of free Wi-Fi hotspots in parks, schools, libraries, transportation hubs, and other public spaces.{{cite news |last1=Corrales |first1=Nestor |title=Duterte signs law giving free internet access in public places |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/919860/duterte-signs-law-giving-free-internet-access-in-public-places |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=August 2, 2017}} According to Pangilinan, the law aims to modernize infrastructure and bridge the digital divide, especially for students and rural communities.{{cite web |last1=Calimag |first1=Melvin |title=Pangilinan files bill to institutionalize free Wi-Fi in public areas |url=https://newsbytes.ph/2016/07/20/pangilinan-files-bill-to-institutionalize-free-wi-fi-in-public-areas-2/ |website=NewsBytes |access-date=May 9, 2025 |date=July 20, 2016}}

He authored the Sagip Saka Act ({{translation|Save the Farm Act}}; RA No. 11321) in 2019, a law aimed at improving farmers' incomes and modernizing agriculture.{{cite news|date=May 27, 2019|title=Sagip Saka Act for farmers, fisherfolk signed into law|work=Rappler|url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/231616-sagip-saka-act-farmers-fisherfolk-signed-into-law|access-date=October 22, 2019}} The Sagip Saka Act institutionalizes direct purchase programs by government agencies and local government units from accredited agricultural and fishery cooperatives, thus bypassing middlemen and the traditional bidding process.{{cite web |last1=Buban |first1=Charles E. |title=Kiko Pangilinan on how to empower small farmers |url=https://coverstory.ph/kiko-pangilinan-on-how-to-empower-small-farmers/ |website=Cover Story |access-date=May 11, 2025 |date=July 18, 2023}} The law also provides tax incentives for donors of farm equipment and infrastructure.{{cite news |last1=Balinbin |first1=Arjay L. |title=Duterte signs Sagip-Saka Law boosting direct procurement of agricultural goods |url=https://www.bworldonline.com/economy/2019/05/27/233160/duterte-signs-sagip-saka-law-boosting-direct-procurement-of-agricultural-goods/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=BusinessWorld Online |date=May 27, 2019}}

As part of his social legislation advocacy in the Senate, Pangilinan co-authored the Student Fare Discount Act of 2019 (RA No. 11314). This law institutionalized a 20% fare discount for students on all forms of public transportation throughout the year.{{cite news |last1=Panti |first1=Llanesca T. |title=Kiko Pangilinan says laws he authored and sponsored, track record his 'resibo' |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/942337/kiko-pangilinan-says-laws-he-authored-and-sponsored-track-record-his-resibo/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=April 10, 2025}} The measure guaranteed the existing student fare privilege by law and extended it to include weekends and semester breaks. Pangilinan, along with the bill's principal sponsors, Senators Sonny Angara and Bam Aquino, pushed for the passage of this relief for students amid rising transportation costs.{{cite news |last1=Fernandez |first1=Butch |title=Government urged to fast-track approval of 20% student fare discount law's IRR |url=https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/07/19/government-urged-to-fast-track-approval-of-student-fare-discount-laws-irr/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=BusinessMirror |date=July 19, 2019}}

Pangilinan also co-authored the Expanded Maternity Leave Act, which became law in 2019 (RA No. 11210). This law significantly increased the paid maternity leave for working women in the Philippines from the previous 60 days to 105 days for those with normal deliveries (and from 78 days to 105 days for cesarean deliveries). It also provided options for an additional 30 days of unpaid leave and allocated an additional 15 days of leave for solo mothers. Pangilinan joined a bipartisan group of senators in advocating for this policy, aiming to improve maternal and child health and align the country's labor standards with international norms. He was listed as one of the authors of the Senate bill that led to the law's enactment.{{cite web |title=Senate doubling maternity leave, a great gift on women's day: Pangilinan |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2017/0306_pangilinan1.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 9, 2025 |date=March 6, 2017}}

In May 2019, following the failure of the Otso Diretso slate—of which he was campaign manager—to win any seats in the 2019 senatorial election, Pangilinan announced his resignation as party president. However, his resignation was rejected by party chairperson and Vice President Leni Robredo.{{Cite news|last=Punzalan|first=Jamaine|date=May 21, 2019|title=Robredo rejects Pangilinan resignation as LP president|work=ABS-CBN News|url=https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/05/21/19/robredo-rejects-pangilinan-resignation-as-lp-president}}

In July 2019, following the start of the 18th Congress, Pangilinan filed Senate Bill No. 264 to define and ban political dynasties in public office.{{cite news |last1=Garcia |first1=Ma. Angelica |title=Pangilinan dares Duterte: Certify as urgent anti-political dynasty bill |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/747544/pangilinan-dares-duterte-certify-as-urgent-anti-political-dynasty-bill/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=July 19, 2020}} As chair of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes during the 17th Congress, he used his platform to push for this long-stalled reform. Pangilinan publicly challenged President Rodrigo Duterte in 2020 to certify the anti-dynasty bill as urgent, arguing that such a law is necessary to dismantle oligarchic political structures and ensure equal opportunity in governance. However, like previous attempts by other legislators, Pangilinan's anti-dynasty initiative made little progress in Congress and "hardly moved" in committee deliberations.

Pangilinan played an active role in the legislation addressing the decades-old coconut levy issue. He was a key proponent of what eventually became the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act of 2021 (RA No. 11524). This law created a trust fund (initially capitalized at around ₱105 billion or US$2.18 billion) for the benefit of an estimated 3.5 million coconut farmers and their families, using assets accrued from the 1970s coconut levy.{{cite web |title=P105B coco levy fund law must benefit smallholder farmers: Pangilinan |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2020/0914_pangilinan1.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 9, 2025 |date=September 14, 2020}} Pangilinan had been working on the coco levy issue in the Senate for years—he sponsored a coco levy trust fund bill in the previous Congress that sought to implement a 2012 Supreme Court decision returning the levy to farmers. During debates on the 2021 measure, Pangilinan consistently pushed for provisions to ensure that smallholder farmers would benefit. He argued that "farmer representation is the heart of the coco levy trust fund measure", insisting that coconut farmers themselves should have a strong voice in the fund's management committee.{{cite news |title=Pangilinan expresses mixed feelings about new coco levy fund law |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/03/02/21/pangilinan-expresses-mixed-feelings-about-new-coco-levy-fund-law |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=March 2, 2021}} He also advocated defining a "small coconut farmer" as one owning not more than five hectares of land, to focus the law's benefits on poor and marginal farmers. The initial version of the bill containing these pro-farmer provisions was vetoed by President Duterte in 2019 over concerns about management and safeguards.{{cite news |last1=Romero |first1=Alexis |title='Coco levy bill vetoed due to lack of safeguards' |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/02/11/1892678/coco-levy-bill-vetoed-due-lack-safeguards |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=February 11, 2019}} Pangilinan worked with colleagues to revise the bill, and the refined measure was eventually enacted in February 2021.{{cite news |last1=Kabiling |first1=Genalyn |title=Duterte signs law creating trust fund for coconut farmers |url=https://mb.com.ph/2021/2/26/duterte-signs-law-creating-trust-fund-for-coconut-farmers |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=February 26, 2021}}

During the COVID-19 pandemic-related community quarantines, Pangilinan urged the government to shoulder the cost of COVID-19 testing kits for inbound travelers, particularly overseas Filipino workers.{{cite news |last1=Bordey |first1=Hana |title=Pangilinan wants gov’t to pay for inbound passengers' COVID-19 test |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/791935/pangilinan-wants-gov-t-to-pay-for-inbound-passengers-covid-19-test/story/ |access-date=May 9, 2025 |work=GMA News Online |date=June 17, 2021}} In 2021, Pangilinan co-authored the COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act (RA No. 11525), which aimed to expedite the procurement and distribution of vaccines nationwide.{{Cite web|title=Republic Act No. 11525 {{!}} GOVPH|url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2021/02/26/republic-act-no-11525/|access-date=2022-02-06|website=Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines|date=February 26, 2021 |language=en-US}}

= 2022 vice presidential campaign =

{{further|2022 Philippine presidential election|Leni Robredo 2022 presidential campaign|Team Robredo–Pangilinan}}

File:Leni-Kiko Leniwanag sa Silangan rally Francis Pangilinan (Ynares Center, Antipolo, Rizal; 04-05-2022).jpg, April 5, 2022.]]

On October 8, 2021, Pangilinan filed his certificate of candidacy for vice president in the 2022 Philippine presidential election, running as the Liberal Party's candidate alongside presidential aspirant Leni Robredo.{{Cite news|last=Sarao|first=Zacarian|date=October 8, 2021|title=Kiko Pangilinan files VP candidacy; to serve as Robredo's running mate|url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1498531/kiko-pangilinan-files-vp-candidacy-to-serve-as-robredos-running-mate|access-date=February 6, 2022|newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer}} Unlike Pangilinan, Robredo ran as an independent, although she remained party chair. Pangilinan had initially intended to seek reelection as senator before being selected as Robredo's running mate.{{cite news |last1=Panti |first1=Llanesca |title=Kiko Pangilinan is Robredo's running-mate in Eleksyon 2022 —sources |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/806087/kiko-pangilinan-is-robredo-s-running-mate-in-eleksyon-2022-source/story/?just_in |access-date=October 7, 2021 |work=GMA News Online |date=October 7, 2021}}

One of Pangilinan's opponents in the vice-presidential race was Senate President Tito Sotto, his uncle by marriage (the husband of his aunt-in-law Helen Gamboa), who ran alongside Senator Panfilo Lacson. Pangilinan later acknowledged that the situation was emotionally difficult for his family.{{cite news |last1=Torregoza |first1=Hannah |title=Pangilinan as VP race rival is a 'big deal' with family, Sotto admits |url=https://mb.com.ph/2021/11/16/pangilinan-as-vp-race-rival-is-a-big-deal-with-family-sotto-admits/ |access-date=March 23, 2022 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=November 16, 2021}}

His campaign slogan was "Goodbye Gutom, Hello Pagkain" ({{translation|"Goodbye Hunger, Hello Food"|literal=yes}}), reflecting his platform centered on the agricultural sector, with a focus on food security and support for farmers and fisherfolk.{{cite news|url=https://mb.com.ph/2022/02/19/goodbye-gutom-farmers-fishers-in-pangilinans-priority-list-to-boost-food-security/|title='Goodbye Gutom': Farmers, fishers in Pangilinan's priority list to boost food security|first=Alexandria Dennise|last=San Juan|work=Manila Bulletin|date=2022-02-19|accessdate=2022-06-02}}

Pangilinan placed second in the official vice-presidential tally, receiving 9,329,207 votes, losing to Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte by a wide margin of over 22 million votes.{{cite news|url=https://mb.com.ph/2022/05/25/final-official-tally-marcos-duterte-on-top-with-north-of-31m-votes-each/|title=Final, official tally: Marcos, Duterte on top with over 31M votes each|publisher=Manila Bulletin|date=2022-05-25|access-date=2022-05-25|last=Quismorio|first=Ellson}}{{Cite web |date=May 25, 2022 |title=Marcos Jr. officially proclaimed president-elect |url=https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2022/5/25/Bongbong-Marcos-proclaimed-Philippines-president-2022.html |access-date=May 25, 2022 |website=CNN Philippines |archive-date=June 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620033847/https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2022/5/25/Bongbong-Marcos-proclaimed-Philippines-president-2022.html |url-status=dead }}

= Senate (from 2025) =

In September 2024, the Liberal Party announced that Pangilinan would run for senator in the 2025 election under their banner.{{cite news |last1=Mendoza |first1=John Eric |title=Kiko Pangilinan to run for Senate in 2025 polls under LP |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1985287/kiko-pangilinan-to-run-for-senate-in-2025-polls-under-lp |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=September 20, 2024}} On October 8, 2024, he filed his certificate of candidacy.{{cite news |last1=Baron |first1=Gabriela |title=Kiko Pangilinan files COC for Senate comeback |url=https://tribune.net.ph/2024/10/08/kiko-pangilinan-files-coc-for-senate-comeback |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Daily Tribune |date=October 8, 2024}} He ran alongside former senator Bam Aquino, collectively known as the "KiBam" coalition, with whom he had previously collaborated to establish the TAYO Awards in 2002.{{cite news |last1=Valmonte |first1=Kaycee |date=May 14, 2024 |title=Bam Aquino to lead KANP party, confirms senatorial bid for 2025 polls |url=https://www.rappler.com/philippines/bam-aquino-to-lead-political-party-confirms-senate-bid-2025-elections/ |access-date=May 14, 2024 |work=Rappler}}

He ran on a platform focused on food security,{{cite news |last1=Magsambol |first1=Bonz |title=How Kiko-Bam made a successful Senate comeback |url=https://www.rappler.com/philippines/elections/how-kiko-bam-made-successful-senate-comeback-may-2025/ |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Rappler |date=May 13, 2025}} vowing to lower the price of rice and other goods. Pangilinan also pledged to push for a price floor for rice and to "fully implement" the Sagip Saka Act of 2019 (RA No. 11321) that he authored.{{cite news |title=Kiko Pangilinan pushes Sagip Saka Act, supports DA's palay price planl |url=https://tribune.net.ph/2025/04/11/kiko-pangilinan-pushes-sagip-saka-act-supports-das-palay-price-plan |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Daily Tribune |date=April 11, 2025}}

On May 12, 2025, Pangilinan won a fourth non-consecutive term in the Senate after placing fifth in the official results with 15,343,229 votes.{{cite news |title=LIST: Final senatorial ranking in the 2025 elections |url=https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/05/16/2443547/list-final-senatorial-ranking-2025-elections |access-date=May 17, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=May 16, 2025}} He was proclaimed as senator-elect on May 17, 2025.{{cite news |last1=Gatchalian |first1=Ched Rick |title=Halalan 2025: Comelec proclaims 12 winning senators |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/5/17/halalan-2025-comelec-proclaims-12-winning-senators-1602 |access-date=May 17, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |ref=May 17, 2025}} Aquino also won, having placed second.

Other endeavors

= Academe =

Pangilinan worked as a lecturer on civil law, political law, and labor law at the Ateneo de Manila University from 1993 to 2000.{{cite news |title=Candidate profile: Kiko Pangilinan |url=https://www.inquirer.net/2025-philippine-elections/voteph-candidate-profile/kiko-pangilinan/ |access-date=May 19, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer}}

= Media =

While studying law in the 1990s, Pangilinan began working as a legal analyst and commentator for ABS-CBN's News and Current Affairs division, where he served as Head of the Legal Desk from 1998 to 2001 and contributed legal expertise across various programs. From 1993 until his election as senator in 2001, he was an anchorperson on several public service shows on both television and radio, including Batas (1998–2001), Aksyon Ngayon (1994–1997), and Relos Report with Atty. Kiko (1999–2001), all on DZMM.

From 1993 to 1997, Pangilinan co-anchored the public service and legal advice show Hoy Gising! on ABS-CBN, where he addressed community grievances on air and helped mediate between citizens and public agencies. Pangilinan attributed the show to giving him early public exposure and the opportunity to engage in grassroots concerns through media. It was also through Hoy Gising! where Pangilinan met his future wife, actress Sharon Cuneta, who appeared as a guest in one episode to promote a film.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Pangilinan expanded his media involvement by hosting and co-anchoring various community-oriented programs, including Barangay Dos (2000–2001), a public affairs show with Karen Davila that tackled local issues.{{cite news |title=Korina, Karen & Kris, ang most powerful K sa Dos |trans-title=Korina, Karen & Kris, the most powerful K in Dos |url=https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/showbiz/2001/03/20/119532/korina-karen-kris-ang-most-powerful-k-sa-dos |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=March 20, 2001 |language=Tagalog}} He also worked extensively as a legal analyst and commentator, contributing to legal education and civic engagement via broadcast platforms like DZMM, where he explained laws and citizen rights in accessible terms.

After entering politics, Pangilinan continued to engage in media-related efforts. In 2021, during the COVID-19 lockdown, he and Cuneta appeared in a family-oriented YouTube vlog series highlighting their home and farm life.{{cite news |title=Kiko Pangilinan reacts to wife Sharon's 'Revirginized' |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/08/29/21/kiko-pangilinan-reacts-to-wife-sharons-revirginized |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=August 29, 2001}} In 2022, he was featured on Toni Gonzaga's YouTube talk show Toni Talks, where he discussed his career, personal journey, and reflections on public service.

In 2024, Pangilinan returned to hosting with two short-term public affairs programs. He hosted Hello Pagkain! on One PH from March to October 2024, focusing on food security and agricultural issues, and co-anchored Rekta: Agenda ng Masa on DZRH from May to October 2024, a current affairs show that tackled grassroots concerns.

= Entrepreneurship =

File:Senator Francis Pangilinan farming.png

While studying at UP, Pangilinan started a fishball stand along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. He later expanded it into a small business called "Eat-a-bols", with three locations, 40 steel carts, and a partnership with Nestlé to serve Nestea alongside fishballs.

In 2012, Pangilinan and his wife, Sharon Cuneta, established Sweet Spring Country Farm in Alfonso, Cavite, a {{convert|1.7|ha|km2|adj=on}} family farm that utilizes sustainable farming practices. The farm follows organic and all-natural methods. Pangilinan said that they named it after a natural spring on the property and that it started partly out of a personal need for healthier food for their children (two of whom have allergies and asthma).{{cite news |last1=Jimenez-David |first1=Rina |title=Senator Kiko's life on the farm |url=https://opinion.inquirer.net/113191/senator-kikos-life-farm |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=May 15, 2018}} By growing organic produce and raising free-range poultry, the Pangilinan family ensured a chemical-free diet, which is also consistent with Francis's policy interest in safe, sustainable agriculture. Over time, Sweet Spring Country Farm began selling its produce—such as lettuce, kale, herbs, and root crops—to organic markets and restaurants under its own brand. It also produces artisanal farm products like vinegar made from local sap and brewed coffee from its small plantation. Pangilinan has noted that even natural insecticides are made on-site.

He employs local community members and often invites farmer groups to the farm for training or dialogue. In media features, Pangilinan is shown personally tending to crops or driving a tractor. The Sweet Spring Country Farm has hosted agricultural workshops and is open for educational tours. In a 2023 profile, he welcomed elderly and youth farmers from the area to his farm, underscoring that small farmers remain "the best hope" for "feeding the nation."{{cite web |last1=Buban |first1=Charles E. |title=Kiko Pangilinan on how to empower small farmers |url=https://coverstory.ph/kiko-pangilinan-on-how-to-empower-small-farmers/ |website=Coverstory |access-date=May 21, 2025 |date=July 18, 2023}} Pangilinan and Cuneta have invested in farm infrastructure like greenhouses and rainwater harvesting.{{cite news |last1=Dela Cruz |first1=Liezel |title=Sharon Cuneta and Kiko Pangilinan: Growing their farm, growing their love |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/studios/tv/2025/1/11/sharon-cuneta-and-kiko-pangilinan-growing-their-farm-growing-their-love-0000 |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=January 11, 2025}}

= Authorship =

In May 2018, Pangilinan released his first book, Tagsibol, which chronicles his personal journey into farming and agricultural advocacy. The book reflects on his experience beginning with his chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Agriculture in 2010 and details how his commitment to farming deepened through the establishment of his family-owned Sweet Spring Country Farm in Cavite. Framed as a tribute to Filipino farmers, Pangilinan wrote about the importance of agriculture in national development and aims to inspire greater public respect and support for the farming sector. Pangilinan has described the book as a contribution to passing on the value of farming to future generations.{{cite news |title=Kiko Pangilinan recalls his farming journey in book |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/life/05/14/18/kiko-pangilinan-recalls-his-farming-journey-in-book |access-date=May 23, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=May 14, 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Siytangco |first1=Deedee M. |title=Kiko Pangilinan's Tagsibol, from senator to farmer |url=https://mb.com.ph/2018/6/3/kiko-pangilinans-tagsibol-from-senator-to-farmer |access-date=May 23, 2025 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=June 3, 2018}}

Political positions

File:Akbayan and Progressive Alliance conference (03).jpg conference in Manila, joining opposition figures Chel Diokno, Risa Hontiveros, and Etta Rosales, August 2024.]]

Political analysts and journalists have described Pangilinan as a liberal and progressive legislator who occupies a center-left position within Philippine politics,Citations (liberal and progressive stance):

{{cite news |last1=Baguia |first1=Jason Abellaneda |title=Will bishops' call for 'revolution of hope' affect Filipino elections? |url=https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/will-bishops-call-for-revolution |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=The Pillar |date=April 15, 2025}}
{{cite news |last1=Abelgas |first1=Marisse |title=Aquino, Pangilinan top Senate elections in 1st online voting in Los Angeles |url=https://usa.inquirer.net/171918/aquino-pangilinan-top-senate-elections-in-1st-online-voting-in-los-angeles |access-date=May 23, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=May 13, 2025}}
{{cite news |last1=Cerojano |first1=Teresa |title=Philippines Senate race a blow to President Marcos as he feuds with Vice President Duterte |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/16/philippines-midterm-election-duterte-senate/cbbce69e-3223-11f0-8498-1f8214bba2d2_story.html |access-date=May 22, 2025 |agency=Associated Press |via=The Washington Post |date=May 16, 2025}} notably through his leadership of the Liberal Party and his consistent opposition stance during President Rodrigo Duterte's administration (2016–2022).Citations (opposition stance):
{{cite web |title=Press Release - Pangilinan on Panlilio |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2009/0322_pangilinan1.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 11, 2025 |date=March 22, 2009}}
{{cite news |title=Philippines faces call for UN inquiry into war-on-drugs killings |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/7/5/philippines-faces-call-for-un-inquiry-into-war-on-drugs-killings |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=Al Jazeera |date=July 5, 2019}}
{{cite news |last1=Biraogo |first1=Louis |title=Kiko Pangilinan and the smear that threatens Philippine democracy |url=https://manilastandard.net/opinion/314581260/kiko-pangilinan-and-the-smear-that-threatens-philippine-democracy.html |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=Manila Standard |date=April 22, 2025}}
{{cite news |title=Top Philippine opposition leader quits party post after poll defeat |url=https://www.qatar-tribune.com/article/164358/PHILIPPINES/Top-Philippine-opposition-leader-quits-party-post-after-poll-defeat |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=Qatar Tribune |date=May 22, 2019}} He has advocated for strong public health measures and criticized the Duterte government's COVID-19 response,{{cite news |last1=Ramos |first1=Christia Marie |title=Pangilinan votes vs 'Bayanihan 2' amid alleged COVID-19 funds misuse, Duque incompetence |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1313421/pangilinan-on-bayaniha-2-no-vote |access-date=May 20, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=July 28, 2020}} supported increased regulation of social media platforms to curb disinformation,{{cite news |last1=Abanto |first1=Rowegie |title=Gov't should regulate social media if 'fake news' policies fail, lawmaker says |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/4/13/gov-t-should-regulate-social-media-if-fake-news-policies-fail-lawmaker-says-1636 |access-date=May 22, 2025 |work=ABS-CBN News |date=April 13, 2025}} and promoted agricultural modernization and food security through laws such as the Sagip Saka Act.{{cite news |title=Kiko Pangilinan calls for cluster farming to boost farmer income |url=https://tribune.net.ph/2025/04/05/kiko-pangilinan-calls-for-cluster-farming-to-boost-farmer-income |access-date=May 22, 2025 |work=Daily Tribune |date=April 5, 2022}} Pangilinan has consistently supported expanded education funding,{{cite news |last1=Ferreras |first1=Vince Angelo |title=Kiko Pangilinan wants more funding for teachers' trainings, no more admin work |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/944869/kiko-pangilinan-wants-more-funding-for-teachers-trainings-no-more-admin-work/story/ |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=GMA News |date=May 3, 2025}} environmental sustainability,{{cite news |title=Kiko goes to bat for environmental action to protect livelihoods |url=https://tribune.net.ph/2025/03/22/kiko-goes-to-bat-for-environmental-action-to-protect-livelihoods |access-date=May 22, 2025 |date=March 22, 2025}} anti-corruption and transparency measures,{{cite news |last1=Esguerra |first1=Anthony Q. |title=Pangilinan: Federalism means more taxes, more debts |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1011597/kiko-pangilinan-federalism-means-more-taxes-more-debts |access-date=May 11, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=July 18, 2018}} human rights protections—including opposition to the death penalty and extrajudicial killings—and has taken a firm stance on asserting Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.{{cite news |last1=Ager |first1=Maila |title=Pangilinan vows to stop death penalty bill at Senate |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/878496/pangilinan-vows-to-stop-death-penalty-bill-at-senate |access-date=May 18, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=March 7, 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://mb.com.ph/2021/07/26/kiko-we-cannot-afford-another-six-years-of-duterte-presidency/|title=Kiko: We cannot afford another six years of Duterte presidency|first=Vanne Elaine|last=Terrazola|work=Manila Bulletin|access-date=December 13, 2021|date=July 26, 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Torregoza |first1=Hannah L. |title=Pangilinan: West PH Sea resources answer to hunger, poverty and brownouts |url=https://mb.com.ph/2021/7/11/pangilinan-west-ph-sea-resources-answer-to-hunger-poverty-and-brownouts |access-date=May 20, 2025 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=July 11, 2021}} He also favors improved labor rights,{{cite news |last1=Roxas |first1=Pathricia Ann V. |title=Raise nurses' entry level pay to keep them from leaving – Pangilinan |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1145726/raise-nurses-entry-level-pay-to-keep-them-from-leaving-pangilinan |access-date=May 20, 2025 |work=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=July 24, 2019}} including ending contractualization,{{cite web |title=Pangilinan: Long-serving contractual, casual govt employees deserve regularization |url=https://web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2016/0719_pangilinan2.asp |website=Senate of the Philippines |access-date=May 20, 2025 |date=July 19, 2016}} and supports civil unions for same-sex couples while maintaining a cautious stance on divorce.{{cite news |last1=Ciasico |first1=Francine |last2=Terrazola |first2=Vanne Elaine |title=Most Senators oppose proposal to legalize same-sex marriage |url=https://mb.com.ph/2018/6/30/most-senators-oppose-proposal-to-legalize-same-sex-marriage |access-date=May 19, 2025 |work=Manila Bulletin |date=June 30, 2018}}

Personal life

On April 28, 1996, Pangilinan married singer, actress, and television personality Sharon Cuneta, whom he met on a taping of his show Hoy Gising!.{{cite news|last=Lee|first=Wilson|date=November 11, 2012 |url=https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/sunday-life/2012/11/11/865189/sharon-cuneta-pangilinan-celebrates-adopted-son-miguel-new-townhouse-venture|title=Sharon Cuneta Pangilinan celebrates adopted son Miguel & new townhouse venture|website=The Philippine Star|accessdate=February 23, 2022}} The couple has two daughters, including singer-songwriter Kakie, and an adopted son. Pangilinan is also the legal adoptive father of actress and singer KC Concepcion, Cuneta's daughter from a previous marriage, whom Pangilinan legally adopted.{{cite news |title=Kiko denies talk of split with Sharon |url=http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/entertainment/entertainment/view/20081011-165837/Kiko-denies-talk-of-split-with-Sharon |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |access-date=February 23, 2022 |date=October 11, 2008 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081011084829/http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/entertainment/entertainment/view/20081011-165837/Kiko-denies-talk-of-split-with-Sharon|archive-date=October 11, 2008}}

As of 2025, Pangilinan and Cuneta reside in Ayala Westgrove Heights in Silang, Cavite.{{cite news |last1=Bravo |first1=Frances Karmel S. |title=PEP YEARENDER 2022: 13 amazing celebrity homes we can't wait to see |url=https://www.pep.ph/lifestyle/home/170329/celebrity-homes-2022-a5128-20221225-lfrm |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=Philippine Entertainment Portal |date=December 25, 2022}} They also own two condominium units in Makati.{{cite news |last1=Calderon |first1=Nora |title=Sharon, occupied ang dalawang floor sa isang building |trans-title=Sharon occupied two floors in a building |url=https://www.philstar.com/pang-masa/pang-movies/2020/11/27/2059807/sharon-occupied-ang-dalawang-floor-sa-isang-building |access-date=May 21, 2025 |work=The Philippine Star |date=November 27, 2020 |language=Tagalog}}

On March 11, 2024, Pangilinan filed a 10-page complaint-affidavit before the Department of Justice against the YouTube channel Bungangera TV and representatives of Google or YouTube Philippines for cyberlibel, after the channel accused him of domestic abuse.{{cite news |last1=Casilao |first1= Joanna|title=Ex-senator Pangilinan files cyber libel complaint vs. YouTube channel|url= https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/900152/ex-senator-pangilinan-files-cyber-libel-complaint-vs-youtube-channel/story/|accessdate=March 12, 2024 |work= GMA News|date=March 11, 2024}}

On May 10, 2024, Cuneta and Pangilinan jointly filed cyberlibel complaints against broadcaster Cristy Fermin, citing defamatory remarks concerning their personal and family affairs.{{cite news |last1=Villanueva |first1= Angelica|title=Sharon Cuneta, Kiko Pangilinan file cyberlibel charges vs Cristy Fermin|url=https://manilastandard.net/showbitz/celebrity-profiles/314445399/sharon-cuneta-kiko-pangilinan-file-cyberlibel-charges-vs-cristy-fermin.html |accessdate=May 10, 2024 |work=Manila Standard |date=May 10, 2024}}

Pangilinan is a first cousin of Alfonso Miranda, the father of Parokya ni Edgar lead vocalist Chito Miranda.{{cite news|url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/content/928428/after-neri-naig-arrest-chito-miranda-s-uncle-kiko-pangilinan-offers-legal-help/story/ |title=After Neri Naig arrest, Chito Miranda's uncle Kiko Pangilinan offers legal help |work=GMA News |date=November 28, 2024 |accessdate=November 28, 2024}}

Electoral history

= 2001 Senate election =

= 2007 Senate election =

= 2016 Senate election =

= 2022 vice presidential election =

= 2025 Senate election =

References

External links

[http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/pangilinan_bio.asp Senator Kiko Pangilinan] – Senate of the Philippines
{{official website|https://www.kikopangilinan.com}}
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{{succession box |

before= Loren Legarda |

title= Majority leader of the Senate of the Philippines |

years= 2004–2008 |

after= Migz Zubiri

}}

{{s-ttl|title=Chair of the Philippine Senate Agrarian Reform Committee|years=2009–2010}}

{{s-ttl|title=Chair of the Philippine Senate Agriculture and Food Committee|years=2010–2013}}

{{s-ttl|title=Chair of the Philippine Senate Agriculture and Food Committee|years=2016–2017}}

{{s-ttl|title=Chairperson of the Liberal Party|years=2022–present}}

{{s-ttl|title=Liberal nominee for Vice President of the Philippines|years=2022}}

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