Time to bridge the political divide

President Marcos marked the 42nd death anniversary of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. on Aug. 21, 2025, with a call for reflection and reconciliation. This is a courageous and overdue step toward healing a nation long fractured by the historical rift between the Marcos and Aquino clans. Yet words, however well-intentioned, must be followed by meaningful action.

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Ninoy’s martyrdom, while it brought about polarization, remains a beacon of democratic awakening. His assassination on that fateful August 21, 1983 triggered the mass uprisings that ended authoritarian rule and ushered in the historic bloodless EDSA People Power Revolution.

Ninoy’s famous statement: “The Filipino is worth dying for” —embodies his ultimate sacrifice and a lesson that democracy is inherently fragile, demanding constant vigilance.

Reconciliation, however, must not blur the lines of historical truth. Aquino’s sacrifice should never be forgotten. The task ahead is not to erase, but to remember with clarity—and to ensure the past informs a brighter, more united tomorrow.