Cory Aquino, Philippine democracy icon dies of colon cancer at 76.

I had goosebumps watching the tribute to the former President on TV. I was only 16 and an incoming College freshman when Mrs. Aquino was put to power by the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986.

The former president who helped restore democracy after two decades of the Marcos rule in the Philippines solemnly succumbed to cardio respiratory arrest at the Makati Medical Center at 3:18 a.m. Saturday.

She died 20 days before the 26th death anniversary of her husband former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, a staunch fighter of democracy himself.

Mrs. Aquino was diagnosed with colon cancer more than a year ago. She underwent a series of treatment in the hope to arrest the spread of the cancer cells. Recently all treatments had been refused.

Since then church services were offered daily for Mrs. Aquino. Immediate family and supporters were one in praying for her recovery.

Yellow Ribbon

A yellow ribbon campaign started flooding not just the key streets in Metro Manila and outskirts, but the Internet as well. Filipino American blogger, who maintains Reyna Elena dot com and Barrio Siete, initiated the campaign requesting bloggers to post a Yellow Ribbon on their site to show support and respect for Mrs. Aquino.

The campaign earned a considerable number of followers/bloggers even now.

Until this morning…

“Our mother peacefully passed away at 0318 of cardio-respiratory arrest,” Mrs Aquino’s son, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr, told the media.

“She would have wanted us to thank each and every one of you for all the prayers and the continuous love and support,” he said.

“It was her wish for all of us to pray for one another and for our country.” (Source: GMA News)

Taste of politics

The devoted wife propelled into politics after her husband Ninoy Aquino, a known strong opponent of deposed President Ferdinand Marcos, was murdered in 1983 at the Tarmac of the Manila International Airport.In 1986, the Ninoy’s widow won the presidential elections in 1986.

Mrs. Aquino’s government was marred by several coup attempt.

When she stepped down in 1992, Mrs. Aquino remained visible in activities that promote democracy and peace.

She even campaigned against former President Estrada, but reconciled with him to join protests against incumbent President Arroyo over allegations of vote-rigging and corruption.

Mrs. Aquino was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1986 and later received several awards and citations for her work to promote democracy and human rights.
(Source: BBC News Asia Pacific)

Palace announced 10 days of national mourning.

“Cory Aquino helped lead a revolution that restored democracy and the rule of law to our nation at a time of great peril,” she said.

“Our nation will mourn her passing. History was thrust upon her when her noble husband was cut down in the prime of his life, as he fought for democracy and the rule of law.

“She picked up the standard from the fallen warrior Ninoy and helped lead our nation to a brighter day…

“Our hearts go out to the family in this hour of grief and sorrow.” (PGMA)

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