ON August 21, 1983, a Philippine senator was assassinated at the Manila International Airport on the day of his return from the United States of America. This assassination has led to a significant turn in the lives of many Filipinos, with his death being marked as a special holiday within our calendars.
To many, Ninoy Aquino Day is just another public holiday that allows us to rest while being paid for a day, but if you’ve come to study your history, the murder of Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. stands for more than that.
42 years have passed, and Filipinos are still commemorating the assassination of the late senator, as this marks the beginning of the downfall of the late president Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s regime, which resulted in the beginning of a peaceful protest known as the People Power Revolution.
Being the leading figure of the People Power Revolution, his contribution to restoring democracy in the Philippines is remembered to this day as a symbol of the fight for democracy and human rights in the country.
Following the years of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s presidency, some people still connect the event of Martial Law despite it being implemented by his late father.
While criticism still remains to this day, Bongbong Marcos still gives out his message in commemoration of Ninoy Aquino Day.
“The commemoration of Ninoy Aquino Day brings to light a chapter in our nation’s shared story that continues to echo across generations and public memory. The passage of time has allowed the country to approach this event with greater clarity and, therefore, with a deeper perspective.”
“History invites reflection more than reaction, and from that reflection arises a clearer understanding of civic duty. Over the years, the Philippines has undergone a profound transformation, one defined by a broader public discourse about power, memory, and citizenship.”
“These transitions unfolded in moments when individuals chose to meet history with resolve. As someone raised within a political tradition formed by these moments. I have come to understand that history offers less final judgment than continuing instruction.”
“It sharpens how we serve, how we listen, and how we bear the weight of an office with a greater purpose moving forward. This day, therefore, becomes an invitation to govern with sobriety, conscience. and foresight.”
“Our commemoration achieves meaning when the lessons of the past are reflected in our actions and in the moral architecture of institutions.”
“In honoring this day, the Republic signals its readiness to uphold leadership that strives towards wholeness and reconciliation. Through this observance, we advance the work of statecraft: disciplined, steady, and shaped by the enduring imperative to choose peace above quarrel. and dignity beyond differences.”
“May we all have a solemn and meaningful remembrance,” Marcos ended.
