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<img src="https://cdn.kahimyang.com/resources-23/raul-manglapus.avif" alt="Raul Manlapus" loading="lazy" />
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(Raul Manglapus, founder of Movement for a Free Philippines)
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Establishment and Early Engagements
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The MFP was notable for its moderate views, which broadened the appeal of anti-dictatorship efforts among Filipinos in the U.S. Among the key figures were Raul Manglapus, a former Philippine senator, and Heherson Alvarez, who later played a significant role in the Ninoy Aquino Movement (NAM).  Raul Manglapus was instrumental in organizing the movement and rallying support against the Marcos regime. Heherson Alvarez, on the other hand, was pivotal in the MFP's activities, especially after the <a href="https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/516/today-in-philippine-history-august-21-1983-ninoy-aquino-was-assassinated" class="news_link">assassination of Senator Ninoy Aquino</a>, which led to the formation of the NAM.
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Unlike other groups such as the Katipunan ng Demokratikong Pilipino (KDP), which espoused more progressive views, the MFP aimed to restore pre-Marcos democratic norms. The organization managed to gain significant coverage from American media and policymakers, which helped amplify its message.
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The Movement for a Free Philippines