Today, August 21, the nation commemorates Ninoy Aquino Day, but what was his contribution to the democracy of our country?

Do you know who Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. was?

He was a prominent opposition leader and critic of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. during the Martial Law era.

He was born in Concepcion, Tarlac, on November 27, 1932.

He started his career as a journalist.

In 1955, he was elected as the mayor of his town.

In 1959, he became the vice governor of Tarlac, and in 1961, he was appointed governor of the province.

Benigno Aquino Jr. became a senator in 1967 and 1968 and was a leader of the Liberal Party.

At that time, Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was the president of the country.

Ninoy planned to run for president in the 1973 elections, but this did not materialize because 1972, Marcos Sr. declared Martial Law.

This marked the beginning of Ninoy’s criticism against Marcos Sr., leading to his imprisonment for eight years.

While in prison, he suffered a heart attack.

In 1980, then-President Marcos Sr. allowed him to leave the country for heart surgery.

While abroad, he continued his opposition against the administration.

On August 21, 1983, he decided to return to the Philippines to continue his flight.

However, upon his arrival at what was then the Manila International Airport, Ninoy was assassinated, leading to his death.

His death inspired many Filipinos to intensify their desire to oust Marcos Sr.

It also signaled the 1986 People Power Revolution, led by his wife, Corazon “Cory” Aquino.

For his heroism, he is recognized by many as a true patriot who loved his country.

The Manila International Airport was renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in his honor.

Every August 21, Ninoy Aquino Day is celebrated to remember his sacrifices and heroism in achieving freedom and democracy for every Filipino.