PNoy Leads Commemoration of Father Ninoy’s 31st Death Anniversary

Manila (PNA) — President Benigno S. Aquino III led on Thursday the commemoration of the 31st death anniversary of his father — the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

The President, together with his sisters Ballsy, Pinky, Viel and Kris, attended a mass offered for the democracy icon at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City. Other family members, close relatives and friends were also at the cemetery to remember Ninoy.

Presidential Security Group chaplain Monsignor Daniel Tansip, who officiated the mass, emphasized the importance of commemorating Ninoy’s death, which served as a catalyst for change during the dictatorial regime of then President Ferdinand Marcos.

Tansip said Ninoy’s memories and good deeds remain not only in the hearts of his family but also in the hearts of the people.

“Sa pagnanais na isulong ang pagbabago tungo sa kabutihan ng ating bayan, ibinuwis ng inyong mahal na ama ang kanyang buhay, kaya naman siya ay nabibilang sa mga bayani at martir,” he said.

He said if Ninoy were alive today, he would be very proud of his son -– President Aquino -– for the reforms in government that the latter has instituted.

He then asked for prayers for President Aquino as he continues his duty to lead the country toward the straight path.

“Let us ask the Good Lord for continuous guidance, for the grace and strength, so that we may be able to continue our mission to serve and be always part of the straight path our beloved President is determined to push through,” he said.

While noting that he is just an ordinary priest, Tansip said if he had his way, he would want the President to continue serving the country.

“Kung ako lang po ang masusunod, ako’y isang ordinaryong pari lang, on this personal note: Sana hindi na matapos iyong paglilingkod ng ating mahal na Pangulo, para tuluy-tuloy pa rin ang magandang nasimulan sa pagtutuwid at pagtatama ng daan,” he said.

“I, for one, as priest, believe that right at this very moment, the late Senator, your father, and of course your mother (Corazon Aquino) as well, are very happy with the achievements of their children,” he added.

Also present during the mass were Senate President Franklin Drilon, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, and Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman.

Ninoy Aquino, a staunch critic of Marcos, was assassinated on August 21, 1983 at the Manila International Airport. It was the day he returned to the Philippines after years of exile in the United States. (PNA) LAM/PND/UTB

Image Credit: dwdd.com.ph