Corazon Aquino
Corazon Aquino: A Life of Courage and Compassion
Full Name and Common Aliases
Corazon "Cory" Cojuangco Aquino was a Filipino politician, philanthropist, and democracy icon.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on January 25, 1933, in Tarlac, Philippines; passed away on August 1, 2009, at the age of 76.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Filipino; former politician, human rights activist, and philanthropist.
Early Life and Background
Corazon Aquino was born into a prominent Filipino family. Her father, Jose Cojuangco, was a wealthy landowner and politician who served as governor of Tarlac province. Corazon's mother, Demetria Sumulong Barbosa, came from a respected family in the Philippines. She was educated at the Assumption Convent and later graduated with a degree in politics from the University of the Philippines.
In 1954, Aquino married Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a charismatic politician who would become her lifelong partner in both love and politics. The couple had five children together, including future President Benigno Aquino III.
Major Accomplishments
Aquino's life was marked by significant accomplishments that left an indelible mark on the Philippines and its people:
Leader of the Opposition: In 1983, Corazon Aquino became the leader of the opposition against the authoritarian regime of President Ferdinand Marcos. She mobilized millions of Filipinos to demand democratic reforms.
Election Victory: On February 7, 1986, Aquino won a landslide victory in the presidential election, marking a historic shift from dictatorship to democracy.
First Female President: Corazon Aquino became the first female president of the Philippines, serving from 1986 until 1992. During her presidency, she implemented significant economic and social reforms.Notable Works or Actions
Aquino's commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice inspired countless Filipinos:
Human Rights Advocate: Corazon Aquino was a vocal advocate for human rights, particularly during the Marcos regime. She worked tirelessly to promote freedom of speech, assembly, and association.
Economic Reforms: President Aquino implemented significant economic reforms, including liberalization policies that boosted foreign investment and trade.Impact and Legacy
Corazon Aquino's impact on Philippine history is immeasurable:
End of Authoritarian Rule: Her leadership marked the end of the Marcos regime, which had ruled the Philippines with an iron fist for over two decades.
Democratization: Aquino's presidency paved the way for democratization in the Philippines, inspiring similar movements across Southeast Asia.
Global Recognition: Corazon Aquino was recognized internationally as a champion of democracy and human rights. She received numerous awards, including the Liberty Medal from the National Constitution Center.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Corazon Aquino's life serves as an inspiration to those fighting for freedom, justice, and democracy:
Courage in the Face of Adversity: Her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights, even in the face of extreme adversity, has made her a global icon.
Unifying Force: Aquino's leadership brought together diverse groups of Filipinos, transcending partisan politics and linguistic differences.
Corazon Aquino's remarkable life is a testament to her enduring legacy. Her commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice continues to inspire generations around the world.
Quotes by Corazon Aquino
I cannot think of a tactical alliance with the Left because I represent the idea that there is a peaceful, nonviolent way to dislodge a dictatorship... A tactical Left alliance damages my argument. If I succeed with them, we will never know if peace can really produce freedom.
We Filipinos have to exercise the necessary pressure on Marcos. But it would certainly help our cause if the Americans would stop supporting Mr. Marcos.
If I fail to remove Marcos and vindicate the people's verdict by peaceful, nonviolent action, my methods will be discredited. And if anger persists, I will be marginalized, and others will take over leadership of the movement.
Freedom of expression – in particular, freedom of the press – guarantees popular participation in the decisions and actions of government, and popular participation is the essence of our democracy.
I know my limitations, and I don’t like politics. I was only involved because of my husband.
It’s not just in politics that you can be a servant of the people, you can do it in so many other ways.
National leaders who find themselves wilting under the withering criticisms by members of the media, would do well not to take such criticism personally but to regard the media as their allies in keeping the government clean and honest, its services.
