Journalist and author Conrado de Quiros, a respected figure in Philippine journalism, has passed away, as confirmed by his family on a sad Monday night. He was 72 years old.
Conrado de Quiros was widely known for his prolific career as a columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. His daily column, “There’s The Rub,” was a source of enlightenment, often featuring his sharp and biting wit.
Yet, de Quiros was not content with being a commentator; he was a provocateur, subverting the norms of what a column was expected to be.
One memorable column, dissecting the “true state of the nation” during the era of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, caught the nation’s attention.
Instead of a traditional commentary, he filled the column with a haunting repetition of “Hello, Garci…,” a reference to a notorious election scandal in 2004 that shook the Philippines to its core.
In another astute commentary, Conrado de Quiros left an indelible mark by choosing silence.
He published a column with a blank space, leaving readers to ponder the vacuum of leadership in the national election candidates.
Conrado de Quiros was not just a writer; he was a voice that challenged the status quo and encouraged critical thinking.
His passing marks the end of an era in Philippine journalism, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill. His legacy, however, will continue to inspire and provoke, even in his absence.
