Summary
Highlights
President Corazon Aquino enters the chamber, accompanied by congressional leaders, including Representative Jim Wright and Senator Robert Dole. The atmosphere is marked by sustained and enthusiastic applause from both Democrats and Republicans, signifying the extraordinary respect and emotion her presence evokes.
President Aquino reflects on her return to America after three years, contrasting her previous visit to bury her husband, Ninoy Aquino, with her current visit as the president of a free people. She emphasizes how Ninoy's sacrifice sparked a nation's resurrection, leading to the recovery of national honor and faith in the future. She recounts the hardships Ninoy endured under the dictatorship, including imprisonment and a hunger strike, highlighting his unwavering spirit and commitment to democracy.
Aquino details her role in continuing the democratic alternative for the Filipino people. She explains her decision to participate in the 1984 elections, despite concerns about fraud, believing it was crucial for preparing the people for democracy. She highlights the widespread support she received in the snap election, which, despite attempts at fraud, demonstrated the people's commitment to democracy and ultimately led to her presidency.
President Aquino outlines her commitment to restoring full constitutional government peacefully. She announces efforts to draft a new constitution and hold national and local elections within a year. She also addresses the communist insurgency, noting its growth under the previous regime and her commitment to seeking peace through political initiatives and economic progress. However, she asserts her determination to defend the new freedom if peace efforts are spurned, drawing parallels to Abraham Lincoln's resolve.
Aquino discusses the Philippines' daunting $26 billion foreign debt, emphasizing their commitment to honor it despite the imposed conditions hindering their ability to do so. She points out that the Philippines achieved its revolution with little external help and has fulfilled the crucial condition of restoring democracy. She highlights the Filipino people's deep aspiration for democracy over basic needs and appeals for American support to preserve the hard-won freedom, framing it as a testament to both nations' commitment to liberty.
Following President Aquino's speech, the enthusiastic reception from the US Congress is noted, with her speech being interrupted by applause ten times. Norman Ornstein highlights the widespread admiration for Aquino, who is now seen as a celebrity. He also discusses the delicate balance Aquino struck in her speech, appealing to both Democrats and Republicans despite their differing views on aid and policy towards the communist insurgency, emphasizing her commitment to democracy and avoiding bloodshed while signaling her resolve to maintain freedom.