A Salute to our Former President Corazon C. Aquino

Yesterday, our former late President Corazon C. Aquino was laid to rest beside her late husband, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino at the Manila Memorial Park.

Her funeral march was described to be the longest funeral march in the country. It just reflects that the whole country is mourning of the death of someone who was described as the "mother of Philippine Democracy". Though the weather has been bipolar lately, people still went to the Manila Cathedral to pay their last respects. For me, it also shows that the people hasn't forgotten the sacrifices that she has made for the country.

She is the first president that I grew up with. And I am lucky enough to experience the gift that she has given to the whole country: freedom and democracy.

I am also fortunate enough to see her in person. When I was in grade 5 at St. Theresa's College, QC, she visited our school in commemoration of the EDSA Revolution. I can still envision what she was back then: she was not wearing her usual yellow attire that we used to see on television. Rather, she was wearing a black blouse with red rose prints and a black skirt. She has this aura of being a leader. While walking towards the stage of our "Social Hall", she greeted each student warmly. I envy my batch mates back then who were seated by the aisle lol.

She openly discussed the struggles during the reign of our former President Ferdinand Marcos. I admire her bravery and support for her husband until the end. As a President, she was able to face all the crisis that the country faced back then. One of my classmates are lucky enough to get a book from her... and I think it's about the EDSA Revolution.

The other day, I was able to go to work too early for my own good. When I reached for the doorknob of our small office, I had to smile and almost cried at the same time. There was a yellow ribbon tied on the knob... symbolizing our respect for her. Though we were not able to participate in the funeral march... we always carry it in our hearts.

Tita Cory, we love you and you will always be forever in the hearts of the Filipino people.