Who is Senator Domingo Avila from Dogeaters and what is their importance?

Senator Domingo Avila is a progressive politician, opposed publicly to the fiscal mismanagement and fascistic repression of the Marcos regime. He is also the father of Daisy Avila, the reigning Miss Philippines. When the play begins, the Senator is a popular but controversial figure. He makes speeches to workers about standing up against oppression, and his books have been banned.