The country was united in outrage when Ninoy was assassinated in 1983. The image of his wife that was etched in the memories of those who were old enough to remember was that of a crying widow. Who would have thought of that widow to become the first woman president of the Philippines? Her critics jeered and underestimated her. What could a housewife know of running a country? But it was that woman in yellow that united the country and toppled the dictatorship. Millions took to the streets in 1986 in a peaceful and bloodless revolution that has inspired other nations in fighting for their own freedom and democracy.
Cory Aquino was a staunch believer of non-violent means of accomplishing change. Others would have extract revenge from her enemies and those accused of killing her husband when she came into power. But not Cory, she has chosen the long and ardous path of seeking justice. Until now, justice seemed elusive and those accused are once again free. But there was no amount of bitterness from her. Not even when she was diagnosed with cancer. She has embraced her fate as she had embraced the responsibility of continuing her husband’s cause after his death.
Both Ninoy and Cory’s deaths were somehow expected. There was probably no doubt in the minds of those familiar of the political situation in the country that Ninoy would be killed the moment he returned to the country.
When Cory was diagnosed with cancer, everybody knows what to expect. It was her unwavering faith that was so inspiring. She never complained of pain and maintained a positive disposition despite her situation. But it was her time to leave. She has suffered enough. Though it was expected, it did not make it any less painful.
Only a revered leader deserves this outpouring of grief. Before her death she has seen the thousands who prayed for her recovery and she must know that the country reciprocates the love that she has freely given.
She could be the last leader that this generation can look up to. Aside from her, who else has unquestionable and uncompromising moral values? I cannot think of any from among today’s personalities.
Yellow is a happy color. It’s the color of the rays of the sun peeking from the horizon. It is hope and everything that is positive. That is what I will always associate Cory with. She has been a symbol of hope and an inspiration for us.
Once again, even in death, she has united the Filipinos.
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Grabe, nakakapangilabot kagina pag labay sang truck na ara iya casket. I can only imagine the scenes in the streets on Wednesday.
Ahay… good for you you were able to witness history. I wish I was there also. Hanggang TV kag live streaming na lang ko ya.
Was there again for the funeral procession. I think you know by now what happened to me hahahaha
Nakakabilib yung 4 na honor guards na hindi natinag sa pagbabantay nila sa casket ni Tita Cory – they stood there for more than 8 hours!!!
I wish we could have another president like her someday. One who’s humble, sincere and can make the Filipinos proud and grateful to be Pinoy/Pinay.
Quite a coincidence that I came upon your site . Years ago, as a recently hired college teacher, I had the impulse to quit my job and join Cory Aquino’s reformist team in the Phillipines. She’d gone to school with a distant friend, and I imagined introducing myself . . . and offering to help her in her work. Never acted on the impulse. I’m just too practical, I guess. But I wish I had!