Analysis of Corazon Aquino's Speech Before the US Congress

Introduction

• Delivered on September 18, 1986, by Corazon Aquino, seven months after becoming president.
• Contextualized within the People Power Revolution that ousted Ferdinand Marcos.
• The speech aimed to convey the significance of her leadership and the historical context behind it.

Background of Corazon Aquino

• Personal Background:
  • Widowed wife of former senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a strong opposition figure against Marcos.
  • Corazon Aquino lacked political experience compared to her husband.
  • Comes from a wealthy family (Cuanco family) with connections in government.
• Political Context:
  • Ninoy's assassination galvanized public sentiment against Marcos.
  • Corazon Aquino ran against Marcos in a snap election in February 1986, which was marred by allegations of fraud.
  • EDSA People Power Revolution prompted by Cardinal Sin's call for action.

Key Themes in the Speech

• Tribute to Ninoy Aquino:

  • Emphasized her husband's character and convictions in opposing Marcos's authoritarianism.
  • Describes the suffering Ninoy endured during imprisonment.
  • Ninoy's assassination is presented as a catalyst for the EDSA revolution and a turning point for the country.

• Democratic Philosophy:

  • Advocated for democracy as a means for the people to regain power and rights.
  • Criticized the fraudulent nature of the snap elections that led to her presidency.
  • Stressed that her legitimacy came from the people's struggle rather than electoral fraud.

• Restoration of Democracy:

  • Emphasized the need to respect people's rights and freedoms.
  • Attempt to distance her administration from the authoritarian rule of Marcos.
  • Sought to build a democratic government that would honor the people's will.

• Peace Agenda:

  • Acknowledged the ongoing communist insurgency (CPP-NPA) and proposed peace efforts.
  • Aimed to reintegrate former rebels into society, contrasting with Marcos's martial law approach.
  • However, insurgency issues persisted during her presidency, raising questions about the effectiveness of her peace initiatives.

• Alliance with the USA:

  • Thanked the United States for supporting her and her family during their exile.
  • Reinforced the importance of maintaining strong ties between the Philippines and the U.S.
  • Aimed to assure the U.S. of her commitment to restoring democracy in the Philippines.

Conclusion

• Corazon Aquino's speech serves as an essential historical document reflecting her aspirations for the Philippines after years of dictatorship.
• Themes of struggle, democracy, and peace were highlighted as guiding principles for her administration.
• The speech also illustrates the complex legacy of her leadership amid ongoing challenges in governance and insurgency.