The Legacy of Corazon

Aquino
Corazon "Cory" Aquino was a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark
on the Philippines. As the country's first female president, she led the
peaceful "People Power Revolution" that overthrew the Marcos dictatorship
and restored democracy. Her inspiring story is one of courage,
determination, and a steadfast commitment to the ideals of freedom and
justice.

by Gerald Gerald
Ninoy Aquino's Sacrifice
A Fighter for Democracy
Cory Aquino's husband, Benigno "Ninoy"
Aquino Jr., was a prominent opposition
leader who fought tirelessly against the
Marcos regime. He was imprisoned and
ultimately assassinated, becoming a
martyr for the cause of Philippine
democracy.
Unwavering Faith
Despite the hardships he faced, Ninoy
Aquino remained steadfast in his
determination and faith in God. Cory
Aquino spoke of his "full of determination
and faith in God" as he faced the
challenges of the Marcos dictatorship.
Continuing the Democratic Struggle
Carrying the Torch
After Ninoy's tragic death, the task of continuing
the fight for democracy fell on Cory Aquino's
shoulders. She stepped up to lead the opposition,
determined to offer "democratic alternatives to the
Filipino people" and serve her country through her
unwavering democratic principles.
The People's Victory
Cory Aquino's candidacy in the 1986 snap election
was a pivotal moment in Philippine history.
Despite allegations of fraud, the people rallied
behind her, leading to the "People Power
Revolution" that ultimately ousted Marcos and
secured Aquino's position as the country's first
female president.
The People Power Revolution
The Assassination 1
The assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.
in 1983 was a pivotal moment that
destabilized the Marcos regime and set 2 The Snap Election
the stage for the People Power
In a desperate attempt to regain
Revolution. This tragic event sparked
legitimacy, Marcos called for a snap
widespread outrage and a growing
election in 1986. The opposition, led by
opposition movement.
Cory Aquino and Salvador Laurel, seized
this opportunity to challenge the
dictatorship and rally the people.
The Uprising 3
Despite allegations of fraud, the people
took to the streets in massive protests,
known as the People Power Revolution.
With the support of the military and the
Catholic Church, the people's victory was
secured, leading to Marcos' exile and
Aquino's rise to the presidency.
Addressing the Nation's Debt
1 The Burden of Debt
When Cory Aquino assumed the
presidency, she inherited a staggering
$26 billion in foreign debt, a legacy of
the Marcos regime. This debt had not
benefited the Filipino people, but
rather brought them "calamity-level
experiences".
2 Honoring the Debt
Despite the hardships caused by this
debt, Cory Aquino made the decision to
honor it, recognizing the importance of
maintaining the country's financial
credibility and international standing.

3 The Cheapest Revolution

Cory Aquino noted that the Philippine revolution was "the cheapest among all",
highlighting the remarkable achievement of the people in overthrowing the Marcos
dictatorship with minimal bloodshed.
Seeking American Support
A Plea for Partnership
Cory Aquino's visit to the United
States in 1986 was an
opportunity to seek support for
the newly established democracy
in the Philippines. She invited
America to "join us as we build a
new home for democracy".
Preserving Freedom
Aquino recognized that the
Philippines had won its freedom
through the sacrifices of the
people, and now needed
American help to preserve it. She
appealed to the shared
commitment to democracy
between the two nations.
Applauded by Congress
Cory Aquino's address to the US
Congress was met with
enthusiastic applause, as she was
recognized for her leadership and
the people's triumph in the
struggle for democracy.
A Commitment to Peace and Justice

1 2 3

The Path of Peace A Firm Resolve A Shining Example

Cory Aquino expressed her
desire to explore the path of
peace, recognizing the moral
imperative to seek
reconciliation and avoid
further bloodshed. However,
she also made it clear that she
would not hesitate to take up
"the sword of war" to defend
the country's freedom.
Drawing inspiration from
Abraham Lincoln, Aquino
understood that force may be
necessary at times, but she did
not relish it. Her commitment
to the ideals of peace and
justice was unwavering, as she
sought to "bind up the nation's
wounds" and build a lasting
peace.
Cory Aquino's leadership
during this pivotal moment in
Philippine history stood as a
testament to the power of the
people and their commitment
to democracy. Her vision for
the future was one of a "new
home for democracy" that
would serve as a "shining
testament" to the shared
values of freedom between the
Philippines and the United
States.
A Legacy of Courage and Resilience
Born January 25, 1933

Died August 1, 2009

Education St. Scholastica's College, Assumption College,

College of Mount Saint Vincent, Far Eastern
University

Spouse Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr.

Children Maria Elena, Aurora Corazon, Benigno Simeon

III, Victoria Elisa, Kristina Bernadette

Presidency February 25, 1986 - June 30, 1992

Corazon Aquino's legacy as the Philippines' first female president and the leader of the "People Power
Revolution" is one of unwavering courage, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to democracy. Her story
continues to inspire people around the world, serving as a shining example of the power of the people to
overcome oppression and forge a brighter future.