7,000 people attend unveiling of FPJ statue in San Carlos, Pangasinan

More than 7,000 people attended the unveiling of a statue of the late king of Philippine movies Fernando Poe Jr. in San Carlos, Pangasinan over the weekend, marking his 21st death anniversary.

San Carlos City Mayor Ayoy Resuello led local officials in honoring Poe and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to preserving his legacy.

He said the Sangguniang Panglungsod will pass a resolution declaring August 20, Poe's birth anniversary, as FPJ Day.

“Dahil ang Da King ay taga-syudad ng San Carlos, kami po ay magpapasa doon sa Sangguniang Panglungsod, na tuwing August 20 po, ito ay magiging FPJ Day,” he said.

San Carlos City is the hometown of FPJ's family and the birthplace of his father, Fernando Poe Sr.

The statue is located at the Fernando Poe Jr. Esplanade and Eco Park.

The commemorative plaque reads:

“FERNANDO POE JR. (1939–2004)
Son of San Carlos City, Pangasinan

Born Ronald Allan Kelley Poe on August 20, 1939, Fernando Poe Jr., affectionately known as ‘Da King,’ was a symbol of courage, integrity, and compassion — virtues deeply rooted in his Pangasinense heritage.
The son of Fernando Poe Sr. of San Carlos City and Bessie Kelley of Pampanga, FPJ rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most beloved figures in Philippine cinema. Across more than two hundred films, he portrayed the everyman hero — a voice for the poor, a defender of the oppressed, and a steadfast believer in justice and equality. His characters reflected the strength, humility, and resilience of the Filipino spirit — values nurtured by his roots in Pangasinan, a province known for its industrious and principled people.
Beyond the screen, FPJ was a man of quiet generosity and deep patriotism. His life continues to inspire countless Filipinos to live with dignity, stand for what is right, and serve others with sincerity.

‘Ang tunay na lakas ng Pilipino ay nasa kabutihan ng kanyang puso.’ — Fernando Poe Jr.”

Among those present during the event, titled FPJ Lives On: The Unveiling and Legacy Concert, were former senator Grace Poe and her son FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list Rep. Brian Llamanzares.

Also in attendance were Vice Mayor Bogs Resuello, Councilor Bido Fermin, and SK President Reyna Jamaica Tamondong of San Carlos City; Mayor JR Resuello, Vice Mayor Jake Perez, and Councilor Monica Ramos of Basista; Mayor William Dy and Councilor Edren Llanillo of Bugallon; Mayor Noel Uson of Labrador; Mayor Rosemarie Gacutan of Bautista; Mayor Dickerson Villar of Santo Tomas; Councilor Jessica Gueco of Malasiqui representing Congresswoman Rachel Arenas; Ms. Clarita L. Evangelista representing Congressman Mark Cojuangco; Councilor Betty Ballesteros, ABC President of Aguilar, representing Mayor Kristal Ballesteros-Soriano; Councilor Darryll Bataan of Aguilar; Councilor Marvin Charles Caranay of Anda; Councilor Norman Guiang of Burgos; and Councilor Jairus Dulay of San Nicolas. —AOL, GMA Integrated News