Here's What President Bongbong Marcos Has to Say About the 40th Anniversary of Ninoy Aquino's Death

For the second time in his presidency, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is commemorating the death of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. Monday (August 21) marks 40 years since the opposition leader was assassinated at the old Manila International Airport. The country’s main aviation hub has since been renamed in his honor. 

“I stand united with all Filipinos worldwide in commemorating the Ninoy Aquino Day,” Marcos said in a statement. “By standing for his beliefs and fighting for battles he deemed right, he became an example of being relentless and resolute for many Filipinos.”

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Marcos also called on Filipinos to set aside political differences and unite for a common good.

“In our purposive quest for a more united and prosperous Philippines, let us transcend political barriers that hamper us from securing the comprehensive welfare and advancement of our beloved people,” he added.

Republic Act No. 9256 designates the 21st day of August each year as Ninoy Aquino Day.

President Marcos also encouraged Filipinos to practice love of country and to learn from the example of Ninoy Aquino.

“Let us allow this compelling force to promote collaboration, celebrate diversity, and create a society that is teeming with vitality and inspiration,” he said. “As we take measured yet realistic strides towards progress, let us allow our steadfast spirit to drive us to uplift every Filipino and build an inclusive and more progressive Philippines.”

Aquino was one of the foremost critics of Marcos’ father, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. After living for years in exile in the United States, Aquino decided to come back to the Philippines despite threats to his life. He was gunned down almost as soon as he stepped off the plane in Manila.

His assassination sparked a major political movement that culminated in the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986 that ousted Marcos Sr. and installed Aquino's widow Corazon Aquino as the new President of the Republic.