Ninoy

When Cory died last August 1 until her burial, I wasn't able to personally participate in the nation's movement to honor her. I was focused on the Juniors' training which ended last August 7. I only received text updates from my mother who was so into the entire thing.

She even said that only a stone wouldn't cry when this certain bishop recounted the life of Cory.

My mother also told me that Cory's death is reminiscent of February 1986 People Power Revolution. Even if GenSan was not directly affected by the abuse of the Marcos regime (which equals to Marcos himself), my parents participated in mass prayer rallies. She was then pregnant with me.

While she was recounting her experiences, I strongly felt the connection between my existence and People Power Revolution. I probably got my great sense of justice from my parents and the environment during the time when I was still in my mother's tummy. By the time I was born, I already enjoyed the freedom that they fought so hard for.

I never really had much interest in that part of the history of the Philippines. I probably know more about the pre-Spanish period as well as the colonization of Spain. I don't remember detailed accounts of the 1970s to 1980s events.

But it's not too late yet to learn more about my nation's history and the legacy that the people who fought for democracy have left us.

Below is the poem written by Nonoy during his stay in prison/confinement:

“I am burning the candle of my life
in the dark
with no one to benefit from its light.

The candle slowly melts away
soon its wick will be burned out,
and the light is gone!

If someone will only gather
the melted wax, reshape it,
give it a new wick -
for another fleeting moment
my candle can once again
light the dark
be of service
one more time
and then -
Goodbye"

Let us be the ones who will gather the melted wax; and keep the candle burning always.

Cory

No words will suffice how much Cory has done to our country.

One book isn't even enough simply to describe her.

So while reading some posts in Inquirer, here is what I got that somehow, in just a few sentences, speak a lot about her:

What is Cory Aquino’s legacy?

For the world, it’s the first of a series of peaceful overthrows of authoritarian rulers, spreading to Eastern Europe. For the country, maybe it’s democracy with a six-year limit for the presidency. (referring to the People Power Revolution)

For Filipinos, some have suggested it’s to show them the best they could be. For the journalists who were there, she gave them simply the best story they have ever covered.