Corazon C. Aquino


Corazon Aquino

Seventh President
Third Philippine Republic
February 25, 1986 - July 1, 1992


"As I came to power peacefully, so shall I keep it."

        "Cory" became a household name after the People Power otherwise known as the EDSA Revolution. She is the first and only lady president who was elected. Hers, was a story so unique and extraordinary that only miracles could compare.

        Cory was born on January 25, 1933 in Tarlac. She completed her elementary education at the Saint Scholastica's College and high school at Notre Dame Convent Schools in New York. She earned her degree, Bachelor of Arts in French and Mathematics at Mount Saint Vincent Convent, New York. A year after she graduated, she married Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr.

        As Ninoy started his climb towards politics, Cory was always there to support her husband, at the same time, managing to raise their children.

        It was on August 21, 1983, the day Ninoy was assassinated at the tarmac that Cory was placed into the spotlight. She became the symbol of the people against the Marcos' regime. She started to lead rallies, involved herself in politics by supporting opposition candidates and formed the conveyor group which selects the candidate for the opposition.

        However, the people had other ideas. They urged her to run for president. No political ambitions of her own, she agreed to run but for two conditions: that Marcos declare snap elections and that she be presented with one million signatures endorsing her as candidate for president. A Snap election was declared and Cory was presented with more than one million signatures. With this, she run for president.

        She campaigned from province to province. It was her first direct political involvement. It was also the first time she run for an office in the government.

        She was proclaimed winner by the people despite the opposite declaration in Batasang Pambansa.

        On February 22, 1986, the people's revolt began in Manila as she continued the protest in Cebu.

        On February 25, 1997, Corazon Aquino was officially proclaimed President of the Philippines by virtue of "people power".

        During her administration, peaceful relationship with United States and the rest of the world existed. She was responsible for the implementation of a 60-day cease-fire involving the MNLF and the organization of vigilante groups in Metro Manila.

        Her administration lasted for one term. She did not seek re-election, instead, she gave her support to a candidate who was later proclaimed the next president, Fidel V. Ramos.

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