Senator Mark Villar took to social media to share a touching memory of his time working under former President Rodrigo Duterte.

In a Facebook post, Villar recalled an incident from his early years as Secretary of Public Works, when Duterte personally called him multiple times—something that initially took him by surprise.

“I remember during my first few years as Secretary of Public Works, President Duterte called me personally. I was surprised to see so many missed calls before I finally answered,” Villar wrote.

The call, he revealed, came from a children’s cancer ward, where Duterte had met a father struggling to support his sick child. The man, an unemployed engineer, was facing financial difficulties due to his child’s condition.

“His plea was for me to help find a job for the father of one of the child cancer patients,” Villar shared.

Thanks to Duterte’s intervention, they were able to help the father secure employment. But beyond that, what stood out to Villar was the former president’s deep concern for the children and their families.

“Amidst all the trials and projects we completed during our time together, this stands out as one of my most poignant memories of him. I will always remember the sincerity and kindness of his actions that day. They speak volumes about his character and compassion for others.”

Villar ended his message with well wishes for Duterte, expressing sadness that the former president’s desire to be judged solely by the Filipino people did not come to pass.

“Mr. President, I hope that you are in good health and being treated well. I’m sad that your simple wish to be judged by the Filipino people did not reach fruition. I continue to pray that you will be given the fairness and compassion that all Filipinos deserve.”