Bohol First District Rep. Edgar M. Chatto paid tribute to former senator and democracy icon Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. on his 40th death anniversary on August 21, 2023.
Chatto quoted Aquino’s famous words: “There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.”
He also urged Filipinos to emulate Aquino’s sacrifice for freedom and democracy.
“May the Filipino spirit burn bright as we commemorate Ninoy Aquino’s sacrifice for freedom and democracy. He gave his life for our country and inspired millions to stand up against tyranny and oppression. Let us honor his legacy by serving our people with integrity, compassion, and patriotism,” Chatto said in a statement.
Aquino was assassinated on August 21, 1983 at the old Manila International Airport, now named after him, upon his return from exile in the United States. His death sparked a massive protest movement that led to the ouster of then president Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986. His widow, Corazon Aquino, became the first female president of the Philippines.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., the son of Marcos Sr., also issued a message on the occasion of Aquino’s death anniversary.
He said that he stands united with all Filipinos in commemorating the Ninoy Aquino Day and called for transcending political barriers for the welfare and advancement of the nation.
However, some critics of Marcos Jr. questioned his sincerity and accused him of trying to revise history and whitewash his father’s atrocities. They also lamented the state of human rights, press freedom, and democracy under his administration.
The Ninoy Aquino Day is a special non-working holiday in the Philippines by virtue of Republic Act No. 9256. It aims to commemorate the life and achievements of Aquino as a symbol of courage and nationalism.