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Devy Mar M. Topia

BSBA – FM 1
Readings in the Philippine History

There is always a rainbow after the storm – a quote that many of us heard already. This means
that there is always a beautiful silver lining and a light of hope after the dark times. Many people
believed that former President Corazon Aquino, became a rainbow for Filipino people in the
time where Marcos administration is leading the nation in a way that democracy and freedom is
no where to be found. After Marcos’ reign ended, the place who have gone through so much
injustice and mess, had a female leader for the first time and that is our former President
Corazon Aquino. Aside from that, former President Corazon Aquino’s political color , which is
the color yellow, is considered as the color of dreams, hope, justice, freedom , and most
importantly, democracy.

The dust had just started to settle when former President Aquino addressed a joint session of the
US Congress in September 1986. She was making her first trip to the United States since the
overthrow of dictator Ferdinand Marcos in February of the same year, when the Philippines was
still dealing with the damage his rule had caused. According to former President Corazon
Aquino, the Philippines had only begun a lengthy path to recovery. This occasion for me is very
important, as this is one of the very few times, where you see women, talking, being in control,
and being heard, in a room full of men. Considering those times, where mostly men is in control,
when the idea of women as the one in the front is not yet familiar. I see this occasion, as an
inspiration, not just for Filipino women but also every women around the world, that women can
also lead, women can also be a symbol of hope, justice, and freedom.

Furthermore, the former president Corazon Aquino’s address sheds light on the struggles the
Filipino people underwent to achieve freedom, as well as the ways in which past acts of steadfast
resistance have served as an inspiration for present Filipino revolutionaries. She was able to let
the leaders of the country USA, know what was the situation in the Philippines during the 14
years of dictatorship of Marcos, and what are the effects of the ruling of Marcos. She also talked
about her husband’s death, which is considered to be the awakening of the people, to take a stand
against Marcos and the awakening of Filipino resilience, patriotism, and unity. Lastly, her
speech also illustrates the transition from a dictatorship to a democratic system of government.

I can really say that Aquino’s really gone through so much at that time. People supported and
expected them to be the voice of democracy during the sad days of the Philippines, in the control
of Marcos administration. However, what really stood up to me, is the fact that former President
Aquino is more than just a President, she is a wife, a mother, and woman. A woman who chose
to be resilient and be strong not just for her family but for the whole country, which is very noble
and honorable to do. It is very significant to note that she made history in our country, as the first
woman to be a president. A president that led and gave our country democracy and freedom, that
we, in the present days are living and will continue living with it in the future. That is because of
one woman, our former President Corazon Aquino.