Brief Summary
Corazon Aquino's speech before the United States Congress is a powerful address that recounts her personal journey and the Philippines' struggle for democracy. She emphasizes the importance of peaceful revolution, the challenges of economic recovery and foreign debt, and the need for continued American support. Aquino's speech is marked by themes of sacrifice, faith, and the enduring pursuit of freedom, resonating deeply with the members of Congress.
- Aquino recounts her personal journey and the Philippines' struggle for democracy.
- She emphasizes the importance of peaceful revolution.
- She addresses the challenges of economic recovery and foreign debt.
- She appeals for continued American support.
Introduction and Key Figures
The session begins with introductions of key figures, including the Speaker of the House, the Senate Pro Tem, and Congressional leaders such as Jim Wright, Robert Dole, and Robert Byrd. The enthusiastic applause indicates the significance of the occasion, particularly as many members of Congress are seeing Corazon Aquino in person for the first time. The bipartisan and widespread emotion underscores the importance of Aquino's presence and message.
Formal Introduction
The Speaker of the House formally introduces Corazon Aquino, the President of the Republic of the Philippines, highlighting the privilege and honor of presenting her to the members of Congress. This sets the stage for Aquino's address, emphasizing the respect and anticipation surrounding her speech.
Aquino's Personal Journey and the Loss of Ninoy
Aquino begins by reflecting on her departure from America three years prior to bury her husband, Ninoy Aquino, and his dream of Philippine freedom. She returns as the president of a free people, emphasizing that Ninoy's sacrifice led to a national resurrection. His death united the nation, restoring its honor and faith in the future.
Ninoy's Ordeal Under Dictatorship
Aquino recounts Ninoy's imprisonment and suffering under the dictatorship, highlighting his unwavering spirit despite the government's attempts to break him. She describes the indignities he faced, including solitary confinement and threats of execution. Ninoy's resilience and commitment to democracy inspired the nation, even as democratic institutions were dismantled.
The Spark of Revolution
Aquino describes Ninoy's assassination in Boston as the catalyst for the country's resurrection. Despite the dictator's attempt to diminish him, two million people escorted him to his grave, igniting the revolution that brought Aquino to power. This pivotal moment underscores the people's courage and faith in their ability to achieve freedom.
The Path to Democracy
Aquino explains her strategy of using democratic means to fight the dictatorship, participating in the 1984 election despite knowing it would be rigged. She emphasizes her faith in the people's intelligence and their ability to prepare for democracy. The people's overwhelming support in the snap election led to her being drafted to challenge the dictatorship, culminating in the events seen on television and in newspapers.
The People's Revolution and American Support
Aquino highlights the courage and integrity of the Filipino people in standing fast for democracy against threats and corruption. She thanks the United States for its changing policy towards the Philippines, balancing strategic interests with human concerns. The election of Aquino and Laurel is seen as an extraordinary manifestation of democracy.
Restoring Constitutional Government
Aquino outlines her commitment to restoring full constitutional government through peaceful means. She emphasizes the importance of respecting life and freedom, and the ongoing efforts to complete the constitutional structures of the new democracy. A constitutional commission is drafting a new constitution, which will be submitted to a popular referendum, followed by national and local elections.
Addressing the Communist Insurgency
Aquino contrasts her approach to the communist insurgency with that of her predecessor, who used oppressive measures that only exacerbated the problem. She advocates for political initiatives, local reintegration programs, and economic progress to bring the insurgents down from the hills. While committed to peace, she asserts her determination to defend the Philippines' freedom.
Seeking Peace and Defending Freedom
Aquino emphasizes her commitment to exploring the path of peace to its utmost, while also asserting her resolve to defend the country's freedom if necessary. She invokes the spirit of Abraham Lincoln, expressing a desire for reconciliation and lasting peace, but also a willingness to use force to defend the integrity and freedom of the Philippines.
The Burden of Foreign Debt
Aquino addresses the issue of the Philippines' $26 billion foreign debt, stating her commitment to honoring it, but also highlighting the unfair conditions imposed on her government. She points out that the debt was incurred by the previous government, which did not benefit the Filipino people. She appeals for assistance and liberality commensurate with the calamity that has befallen the country.
Economic Challenges and the People's Priorities
Aquino describes the economic challenges facing the Philippines, including poverty and unemployment. She notes that despite these hardships, the people prioritize democracy, demonstrating their commitment to freedom. She feels a pressing obligation to respond quickly to their needs and address the communist insurgency that feeds on economic deterioration.
A Call for American Support
Aquino appeals to the American people, questioning whether there has been a greater test of national commitment to the ideals they hold dear. She highlights the sacrifices the Filipino people have made for freedom and asks for America's help to preserve it. She emphasizes that the Philippines needs assistance to build a new home for democracy and serve as a haven for the oppressed.
Conclusion: Building a New Home for Democracy
Aquino concludes by thanking America for the haven it provided her family and inviting the nation to join the Philippines in building a new home for democracy. She envisions this new home as a shining testament to the two nations' commitment to freedom, standing as a beacon of hope for the oppressed.
Post-Speech Analysis
The commentators discuss the overwhelmingly enthusiastic response to Aquino's speech, noting the numerous interruptions for applause. They highlight her clever presentation, which balanced various political viewpoints and addressed concerns about economic challenges and the communist insurgency. Aquino's ability to draw in both Democrats and Republicans by emphasizing her commitment to democracy and freedom is noted as a key factor in the speech's success.
