- Time Period: Post-WW2 Period
- Year of Institution: 21 October 1946
- Country: Republic of The Philippines
The Quezon Service Cross (or Krus ng Serbisyo ni Quezon in Filipino) stands as the highest national honor bestowed by the Republic of the Philippines. Since its establishment in 1946, only a select few Filipinos have been recipients of this prestigious recognition.
The creation of the award dates back to October 21, 1946, through Joint Resolution No. 4 of the 1st Congress of the Philippines, which holds the authority of law. Known as the Quezon Service Cross, this decoration is bestowed by the President of the Philippines with the consent of the Congress of the Philippines. It is conferred upon Filipino citizens who have exhibited exemplary service to the nation, elevating the prestige of the Republic of the Philippines or contributing significantly to the enduring welfare of its people.
Nominees for the Quezon Service Cross must demonstrate services deserving of the award, measured against the standard established by the notable contributions of the late President Manuel L. Quezon, in whose honor the decoration is named. President Manuel Roxas proposed the establishment of this honor, also known as the Congressional Quezon Service Cross, as its conferral necessitates approval from the Congress of the Philippines and is rarely granted.
Only six Filipinos have been conferred this decoration:
- Diplomat Carlos Romulo
- President Emilio Aguinaldo
- President Ramon Magsaysay (Posthumous)
- Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. (Posthumous)
- Secretary of Interior and Local Government Jesse Robredo (Posthumous)
- Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago (Posthumous)
The Quezon Service Cross Design
The badge of the Quezon Service Cross consists of a Maltese cross suspended from a ribbon, with intricate details and symbolism incorporated into its appearance. The obverse features the inscription “Sic floret Respublica” (“He distinguished the Republic“) and has a relief of President Manuel L. Quezon. The wreath is a Sampaguita design.
The ribbon has equal bars of white, green, white, green, yellow, red, white, red, yellow, green, white, green, and white.
