President Corazon Aquino’s Speech before the U.S.

Congress
Speech of Her Excellency Corazon C. Aquino President of the Philippine
During the Joint Session of the United States Congress
i. Summary
- President Corazon Aquino of the Philippines delivered a historic speech before
the U.S. Congress on September 18, 1986. In her address, she expressed gratitude for
American support during the People Power Revolution that ousted dictator Ferdinand
Marcos in which she highlighted the human rights abuses under the Marcos regime,
including censorship, repression, and extrajudicial killings. She emphasized the values
of democracy, freedom, and human rights. Aquino called for continued U.S. assistance
in rebuilding the Philippines and promoting democracy in the region. Her speech
marked a significant moment in U.S.-Philippines relations and reinforced the
commitment to democracy in the Asia-Pacific region.
ii. Context and Content Analysis
Author’s Background
- Maria Corazon Conquanco-Aquino
- Born on January 25, 1933 in Tarlac Province, North of Manila
- In 1954, she graduated at Mount St. Vincent College in New York City with a bachelor’s
degree in French and Mathematics.
- In 1955, she married Benigno Simeon Aquino Jr.
- In February 1986, Cory Aquino ran for the presidential election, opposing Ferdinand
Marcos.
- The 11th and first woman President of the Philippines.
- Mother of Asian Democracy
- Her presidential term lasted for 6 years (Feb. 25, 1986 – June 30, 1992)
- She died on August 1, 2009 at the age of 76 due to colon cancer
Historical Background
- The speech was assumed to be written between April- September of 1986 in the
Philippines.
- It was delivered on September 18, 1986 in Washington D.C., U.S. Congress
- 3 years after the assassination of Benigno Simeon Aquino Jr. the situation of the
Philippines is 7 months free from the martial law era that lasted for 14 years.
Author’s Intent
- To appeal for financial assistance and economic aid to help rebuild the country after
years of corruption and mismanagement under the Marcos regime.
- She emphasized the importance of democracy and the rule of law in her country.
- To declare the freedom of the Filipinos from the Marcos regime
- To mark a new beginning for the Filipinos and to its government.
Source’s Relevance and Meaning Today
- Understanding the History of the Philippines
- Validation of the People Power Revolution
- Inspiration for Other Movements
- Strengthened U.S. – Philippines Relations
- Promotion of Human Rights
- Serve as an Evidence About Reality of Marco’s Dictatorship
- Changed the Philippines’ Perception About Women
Author’s Main Argument
- To officially declare and mark the freedom of the Filipino people and to express how the
Filipino citizens unite to take back the democracy that was taken away from the during
the Marcos’ era.
 Point of View
- A newly elected democratic leader who had come to power through a peaceful
revolution.
- A victim and witness of the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos
Biases
- The speech was in favor of her government and her political agenda.
- Asking for support from U.S. could be perceived as biased toward American Interests

Evaluation of Author’s Claim

- Corazon Aquino’s claim was based on her experiences.
- And also, it was based on people’s evident situation.
- She strongly impacted her nation, and she became an inspiration.

iii. Evidence (pictures, map, document etc.)

iv. Conclusion
President Corazon Aquino’s speech in 1986 marked a pivotal moment not only in
the history of the Philippines but also in the broader global context of democracy and
human rights. As the first female president of the country and a symbol of the People
Power Revolution, her address held immense significance. In conclusion, President
Corazon Aquino’s speech before the U.S. Congress was a compelling testament to the
enduring values of democracy and human rights. It strengthened the bonds between
Philippines and the United States and inspired people worldwide to stand up for
freedom and justice. Her legacy continues to serve as a reminder of the importance of
leadership rooted in democratic principles.