The family of the late democracy icon Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. rejected comparisons between his return to the Philippines in 1983 and former President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent legal troubles with the International Criminal Court (ICC).
In an official statement, the Aquino family emphasized that history shows a stark contrast between the two situations. They argued that Aquino’s return was a selfless act to restore democracy, while Duterte is attempting to evade accountability for alleged crimes against humanity.
Duterte was arrested on March 11 after arriving from Hong Kong, days after the ICC issued a warrant for his role in the country’s controversial war on drugs.
Leila de Lima Joins Criticism of Duterte’s Alleged “Melodrama”
Former Senator Leila de Lima, a known critic of Duterte, echoed the Aquino family’s sentiments. She stated that Aquino knowingly risked his life for democracy, while Duterte is merely trying to avoid the consequences of his actions.
According to de Lima, justice is based on truth, not theatrics, and history will recognize the difference between true sacrifice and an attempt to escape responsibility.
The comparison between Duterte and Aquino arose after reports suggested that Vice President Sara Duterte warned her father against returning to the Philippines, fearing he could suffer the same fate as Aquino.
Aquino was assassinated in 1983 upon his arrival at the Manila International Airport, a moment that fueled the movement against then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. His son, the late former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, carried on his father’s democratic ideals during his tenure.
Aquino Family Calls for Marcos Accountability
The Aquino family also reiterated that they hold the Marcos family accountable for the events leading to Ninoy’s assassination. However, they stressed that he fought oppression through peaceful means, never endorsing violence.
Vice President Sara Duterte previously accused the Marcoses of orchestrating Aquino’s killing, adding fuel to the already fractured relationship between her and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The once-strong alliance between their political camps has disintegrated into a public feud.
With Duterte in ICC custody and tensions between the Marcos and Duterte factions escalating, Philippine politics faces an uncertain future.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.