Governor Victorino Dennis Macalinao Socrates, known to friends as “Dennis,” expresses a deep love for Palawan and its people in every word he speaks as he forges his path in public service.
Socrates’ upbringing, enriched by both formal education and hands-on experience, has shaped his lifelong commitment to serving the public.
He is a product of two of the Philippines’ most prestigious institutions. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Legal Management from Ateneo de Manila University in 1982, followed by a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines in 1986.
After becoming a member of the Philippine Bar, he initially pursued a career in academia, teaching law at Palawan State University before stepping into the political arena.
He resides in Quezon, Palawan — home to the world-famous Tabon Caves — and Puerto Princesa City, where he fulfills his gubernatorial responsibilities.
Socrates is married to Judge Ma. Rowena C. Pangalangan-Socrates, and together they have five children. His life and career reflect a steadfast commitment to justice, education and the well-being of Palawan and its people.
In an interview with DAILY TRIBUNE on 5 February, the 63-year-old provincial chief executive highlighted that good governance equates to being just and following the law.
“Justice is achieved by following the rule of law. The most important component of good governance is the rule of law. Let’s not become corrupt politicians — that’s a big deal,” he said.
This ideal was shaped by his work as a lawyer and inspired by his late father, Salvador P. Socrates — a fellow lawyer and former governor of Palawan — who tragically died in a plane crash while in office in 2000.
One of his guiding principles, both as a lawyer and a politician, is a strong belief in the system of checks and balances.
“We all have weaknesses; it could be wrong. No one has the monopoly of making the right decisions for the community,” he said.
He maintained that political divisions, often seen as sources of conflict, can help foster a healthier democratic system.
Socrates described his role as 10 percent political decision-making and 90 percent serving in a style of leadership that is a unifying force for the community.
“It’s hard to strengthen a community if you’re not part of the community, if you don’t share the aspirations, traditions — the history of it,” he said.
Socrates emphasized what he sees as a moral duty to provide Palaweños with the leadership they deserve.
“I have no choice but to run for election. I’m the only one standing between Pepito’s continued rule over Palawan and the community that doesn’t want it anymore,” he said.
He was referring to former governor Jose “Pepito” Alvarez, a longtime political rival.
“I don’t mind not getting elected, except that it seems to be my vision. I am up for retirement anyway,” Socrates said.
According to Socrates, his role is not just as a political figure but also as an educator, striving to close the gap between public perception and the realities of governance.
“There is a disconnect between public perception, the actions of politicians, and the actual requirements of the law,” he said. “While I’m here, I’ll do what I can to educate.”
The incumbent governor’s commitment to public service remains unwavering, driven by a vision of a united and progressive Palawan.
Through education, he aims to foster a governance not just about authority but also about collective understanding.