Content and Contextual Analysis: Speech of Corazon C. Aquino | The Joint Session of the U.S Congress

Corazon C. Aquino was the 11th and first female president of the Philippines, born on January 25, 1933. She graduated from the College of Mount St. Vincent in 1953 with degrees in French and Mathematics. As the widow of Senator Benigno Aquino, she became known as the 'mother of Asian democracy'.

On September 18, 1986, seven months into her presidency, Corazon Aquino addressed the US Congress. This period marked the Philippines' liberation from 14 years of martial law. The assassination of her husband, Benigno Aquino, in 1983, led to a crisis of legitimacy for the Marcos regime and fueled widespread protests. The EDSA Revolution of 1986, which peacefully overthrew the dictatorship and installed Aquino, brought the Philippines into international focus.

Corazon Aquino, seen as a figure of the EDSA Revolution and a symbol of restored democracy, contrasted sharply with Marcos's image. Her speech intended to declare Filipino freedom from the Marcos regime, mark a new beginning, and appeal for financial assistance from the American government by detailing the state of the Philippines.

Aquino's opening statement expressed grief over her husband's death but highlighted how it ignited a national pursuit of democracy. She narrated her perspective as the people's champion, describing how Filipinos achieved democracy through peaceful revolution under difficult circumstances. She praised the Filipino people's dedication and focused on restoring constitutional government. She also emphasized the nation's commitment to honoring its $26 billion foreign debt despite the challenges, using this as a compelling argument for US financial aid.

Following the EDSA Revolution, Aquino's administration faced significant challenges. These included political instability due to opposition from Marcos loyalists and internal divisions, severe economic difficulties like high inflation and unemployment, and the complexities of implementing agrarian reform. Additionally, her government contended with several military coup attempts by dissatisfied factions.