Aquino and sisters commemorate Ninoy's birthday solemnly
President Benigno S. Aquino III, together with his sisters, commemorated the 78th birthday of their late father, Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., quietly and solemnly on Saturday at the Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque City.
Shortly after his arrival, the President’s sisters Ballsy, Pinky and Viel joined him in attending Holy Mass which was officiated by Fr. Vicente Jose Vera, chaplain of the Armed forces of the Philippines which was held beside the tombs of the former senator and his wife former President Corazon C. Aquino.
The First Couple, Ninoy and Cory are considered democracy icons after fighting the dictatorship of President Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970’s.
As Senator, Ninoy was a staunch defender of human rights and became a top critic of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos. He was imprisoned during the Martial Law.
On August 21, 1983, Ninoy was assassinated at the Manila International Airport (later renamed in his honor) upon returning home from exile in the United States.
His death catapulted his widow, Cory, to the presidency, replacing the 20-year Marcos dictatorship.(PCOO)
