Wednesday, August 05, 2009

Cory Aquino's historic speech before the U.S. Congress



The Philippines was once a beacon of hope. Today, we desperately search for that lost hope. Just as Ninoy Aquino's death in 1983 unleashed a fiery passion for freedom and democracy, Cory Aquinos's passing away 26 years later today, has reawakened a nation that, just like before, has had enough.

Indeed, her death can serve as a catalyst for genuine change and political maturity in our country. That is if Filipinos ensure that truth and justice will prevail. We must demand from our leaders the utmost sincerity and unimpeachable integrity before they be allowed to shepherd our nation.

Sometimes, I think that Cory's death could not have come at a more opportune time, as our government began an onslaught of photographs and press releases trumpeting the "success" a U.S. trip that had nothing but superficial gains. It was at best, a photo opportunity for shallow bragging rights, done at the expense of Philippine taxpayers. If there was any trip by a Philippine president to the U.S. that had made the biggest impact, it was Cory's. Watching President Aquino's historic speech before the U.S. Congress on September 18, 1986 says it all. No need for government spin doctors here.



4 comments:

  1. Anonymous5.8.09

    wonderful and eloquent speech. thanks for the reminder, Ivan. i've never seen this before. i was too young then. i do hope Tita Cory's passing will reignite our spirit to build a better country. thank you Tita Cory for your courage and sacrifice.

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  2. i wasnt born yet then, but it was really a great speech. talk about a US visit! i feel sad for our country that we always have moments of greatness and hope but we can't always seem to follow through.

    stark contrast with GMAs photo-op with obama which was barely noticed by americans. there is a great difference between politicians who seek glory for themselves and leaders who give glory to the nation.

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  3. ITS A SAD DAY, BUT IM OPTIMISTIC WE'LL STAY LIKE THE SMARTASSES THAT WE ARE... =) I HOPE WE ALL BECOME BETTER PEOPLE BECAUSE OF HER

    HI THERE! WUT U DOIN?! :) http://www.kumagcow.com
    VISIT ME TODAY PLEASE!

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  4. Have been watching this for like 20times alraedy and still proud of her and pinoy everytime I do so. She has the charisma that even the Americans are enthralled. Her leagcy shall always live with us.

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