Last Updated on August 6, 2024 by Deia Dee

Ninoy Aquino Day – August 21, 2024 ????

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August 21 is celebrated as Ninoy Aquino Day in the Philippines, a significant holiday honoring the life and legacy of a national hero. Established in 2004, this day serves as a tribute to the ultimate sacrifice made by Ninoy Aquino for the Filipino people.

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Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. was a highly influential and inspirational political figure who championed independence and democracy in the Philippines. Despite being imprisoned for opposing President Ferdinand Marcos, Aquino continued to fight for freedom. After being released and going into exile, he planned to return to Filipino politics. Tragically, he was assassinated upon his return in 1983. Today, Filipinos honor his legacy with his famous words: “The Filipino is worth dying for.”

Introduction ???

Ninoy Aquino Day is celebrated annually on August 21st in the Philippines to honor the life and legacy of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. This day commemorates his heroic efforts to fight for democracy and freedom, marking a pivotal moment in Philippine history. The holiday was established in 2004 and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the country’s democratic ideals.

Historical Background ??

Early Life and Career ??

Ninoy Aquino was born on November 27, 1932, into a prominent political family. His charisma and intelligence propelled him into politics, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the youngest senators in Philippine history.

Opposition to Martial Law ??

In the 1970s, under the regime of President Ferdinand Marcos, Aquino became a vocal opponent of martial law and authoritarian rule. His unwavering dedication to democratic principles earned him widespread support but also led to his arrest and imprisonment for seven years.

Exile and Assassination ????

After his release, Aquino went into exile in the United States. Despite the risks, he decided to return to the Philippines to continue his fight for democracy. On August 21, 1983, upon his arrival at Manila International Airport, Aquino was tragically assassinated, an event that sparked national outrage and intensified the movement for democracy.

Significance of the Day ??

Ninoy Aquino Day is not just a day of remembrance but a celebration of the courage and patriotism that fueled the Filipino people’s struggle for freedom. It serves as a call to action for Filipinos to uphold the democratic values that Ninoy fought for, encapsulated in his famous words: “The Filipino is worth dying for.”

Celebrations and Activities ??

Nationwide Commemorations ???

• Ceremonies and Speeches: Government officials and civic leaders deliver speeches to honor Ninoy’s contributions and inspire future generations.
• Wreath-Laying Ceremonies: Floral offerings are placed at the Ninoy Aquino monument and his tomb in Manila.

Educational Programs ??

• School Activities: Educational institutions organize programs and discussions about Ninoy Aquino’s life and his impact on Philippine history.
• Documentaries and Films: Media outlets broadcast documentaries and films to educate the public about Aquino’s legacy.

Community Engagement ??

• Volunteer Activities: Many communities organize volunteer efforts to reflect Ninoy’s spirit of service and commitment to the common good.
• Social Media Campaigns: Filipinos share stories, quotes, and images related to Ninoy Aquino to spread awareness and honor his legacy.

Reflection and Inspiration ?

Ninoy Aquino Day is a time for reflection on the importance of courage, sacrifice, and the ongoing quest for justice and equality. It inspires Filipinos to continue working towards a society where freedom and democracy are preserved and cherished.

History of Ninoy Aquino Day

On August 2, the Filipino community celebrates the life of Senator Benigno ‘Ninoy’ Aquino Jr., keeping his legacy alive. Before Aquino’s untimely death, he was regarded as the flag bearer for the progression of modern Phillippine democracy.  

In 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos imposed martial law in the Philippines, placing himself as an authoritarian. The reasoning for this law was to protect the country from civil disobedience and communism, but many believe that it was actually to secure Marcos’s dictatorship. Many public institutions were shut down and anyone who publicly challenged Marcos during this time was imprisoned by the military. Human rights violations were being committed by the military and the economy suffered severely. 

Marcos met his match when Senator Aquino started vocally opposing him. To counter this, Aquino was imprisoned and was allowed to move to the U.S. for medical treatment in 1980 after he suffered a heart attack. He did not quit his efforts for the freedom of his people, however, and continued advocating for it in the U.S.

In August 1983, Aquino decided to return to his country to participate in the 1984 elections against Marcos. He was aware of the risk involved but proceeded anyway. Upon landing at Manila International Airport on August 21, Aquino was assassinated. Many believe this was executed under the orders of Marcos. The event led to an uproar from the citizens, leading to Marcos’s eventual downfall and the presidency of Maria Corazón Aquino — Aquino’s wife. 

In 2004, Ninoy Aquino Day was declared as a commemoration of Aquino’s death by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The holiday also served as a means to boost tourism in the Philippines.

Traditions of the day

Ninoy Aquino Day is observed as a special non-working holiday in the Philippines. Employees who opt to work on this day are entitled to an additional 30% of their hourly wage for each hour worked.

The EDSA People Power Commission (EPPC) organizes events and activities to commemorate Aquino’s fight for democracy. These activities are funded by the Office of the President or through private donations.

Ways to Celebrate Ninoy Aquino Day

Attend an Event

Participate in various events organized by the EDSA People Power Commission (EPPC) that highlight Aquino’s struggle for democracy. These events include parades, speeches, and other celebratory activities held throughout the day.

Honor a Hero

Even if you have to work on this holiday, you can still commemorate the occasion. Spend time with friends and family, and engage in activities that honor the legacy of Ninoy Aquino, whose sacrifice contributed to the downfall of the Marcos regime.

Support a Good Cause

Given Ninoy Aquino’s deep commitment to freedom, this holiday is an ideal time to make a positive impact on others. Consider volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating to a charity, or helping out at an animal shelter. Use this day to follow Ninoy Aquino’s example by helping others, just as he did for the people of the Philippines.

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FAQs ?

Conclusion

Ninoy Aquino Day serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice made by Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. in his unwavering fight for democracy in the Philippines. Celebrated on August 21st each year, this holiday honors a man whose dedication to freedom and justice inspired a nation and played a pivotal role in the country’s history.

As Filipinos observe this special day, it is an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of democracy and the importance of standing up for what is right. Whether through participating in commemorative events, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in acts of service, Ninoy Aquino Day encourages everyone to honor his legacy by contributing positively to society.

By remembering Ninoy Aquino’s famous words, “The Filipino is worth dying for,” Filipinos are reminded of the collective responsibility to continue striving for a just, equitable, and democratic society. This day is not only about looking back at the past but also about inspiring future generations to uphold the ideals that Ninoy Aquino championed.

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