Today marks the 40th anniversary of the martyrdom of Sen. Benigno S. “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. There will be a Holy Mass today to commemorate his sacrifice at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City at 10:00 a.m. This is being organized by the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation and will be celebrated by Archbishop Socrates Villegas.
As we navigate the challenges of the present, we can look to Ninoy’s life for the lessons that can serve as a guiding light for us. Indeed, his legacy continues to shape the continuing fight for democracy and human rights. His courage is our example as we participate in creating a just and equitable society.
This is especially true for our leaders. Ninoy’s life and example must inspire our leaders to prioritize good governance, accountability, and the welfare of the people. His commitment to the Filipino people must serve as a reminder to those who are currently in power that their decisions must benefit the population rather than serve the interests of a few.
As a people, the public must draw inspiration from Ninoy’s time, as well. The lessons are clear as day—we need to be united as we show our outrage against corruption, abuse of power, injustices and crimes against the people, human rights violations, extrajudicial killings, etc. It is our duty to hold our leaders accountable and to be proactive in protecting our own rights and upholding our own welfare. No one else will do it for us—Ninoy taught us that. He certainly taught us so much more, but here are just four of the numerous lessons that Ninoy left us with.
We have to be brave in the face of adversity. He showed us his courage as he stood up for what was right even in the face of grave danger. Even when his welfare and his family’s well-being were at stake.
We Filipinos must value democracy and protect it at all costs. Ninoy was committed to democracy, along with his wife the late ex-President Cory Aquino and his son, the late former President Noynoy Aquino. Democracy was always the buzzword in their regimes. So many of our forefathers, leaders, and ancestors have died in the name of democracy. This is, I believe, one of our greatest treasures as a nation that we must protect with all our might.
We can deliver our message peacefully. Ninoy was an advocate for nonviolent resistance, for peaceful activism. The People Power Revolution is proof that it is effective in bringing about social and political change.
We must have genuine love for our fellow Filipinos, because when we do, then we are willing to work hard for their welfare. Ninoy was even ready to give his life for his countrymen—and that he did. It is, indeed, the greatest sacrifice. I do wonder how many of us are ready to do the same if the situation calls for it—all in the name of the country and for the sake of countrymen.