http://rtvm.gov.ph - President Corazon Aquino before the US Congress

Summary

In her speech to the US Congress, President Corazon Aquino of the Philippines expressed gratitude for American support and highlighted the Filipino people's commitment to democracy. She recounted the struggle against dictatorship, the peaceful revolution, and the challenges of rebuilding a nation with a focus on democracy, peace, and economic progress. Aquino emphasized the importance of honoring the foreign debt while seeking a just economic path, and she called for continued partnership to strengthen democracy and freedom.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mrs. Corazon Aquino, the President of the Philippines, received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from both Democrats and Republicans in the U.S. Congress.
• 🏛 Aquino emphasized the importance of democracy and the sacrifices made by her husband, Ninoy Aquino, in the fight for Philippine freedom.
• 🕊️ She highlighted the peaceful transition of power in the Philippines and her commitment to maintaining peace through democratic means.
• 🗣️ Aquino expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its support during her country's struggle for democracy and requested continued assistance.
• 💡 The speech underscored the challenges faced by the Philippines, including a communist insurgency and a significant foreign debt.
• 🤝 Aquino called for a partnership with the U.S. to strengthen democracy and serve as a beacon for freedom in Asia.
• 🛡️ She acknowledged the necessity of military force as a last resort to protect the integrity and freedom of the Philippines.
• 🏦 The President addressed the issue of the Philippines' foreign debt, stating her intention to honor it despite the economic hardships it causes.
• 🤔 Aquino questioned whether the U.S. has faced a greater test of its commitment to democracy than supporting a people who actively seek it.
• 🌟 The speech concluded with a call for unity and a plea for the U.S. to join the Philippines in building a new home for democracy.

Q & A

Who is the speaker addressing the joint session of the United States Congress?

The speaker is Corazon Aquino, the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Why is Mrs. Aquino's presence in the Congress significant?

Mrs. Aquino's presence is significant because she represents a nation that has recently undergone a peaceful revolution to restore democracy, and her speech marks a moment of international recognition and support for the Philippines.

What was the reaction of the Congress members to Mrs. Aquino's entrance?

The Congress members showed a sustained and very enthusiastic applause, indicating a warm and supportive reception for Mrs. Aquino, which is described as more than the usual reaction for a leader entering the chamber.

Who are some of the key figures mentioned in the script accompanying Mrs. Aquino?

Key figures mentioned include the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, Jim Wright, the majority leader of the House of Representatives, Senator Robert Dole, the majority leader of the Senate, and Senator Robert Byrd, the minority leader.

What personal loss did Mrs. Aquino mention in her speech?

Mrs. Aquino mentioned the loss of her husband, Ninoy Aquino, who was a political figure and advocate for democracy in the Philippines.

What was the context of Ninoy Aquino's death?

Ninoy Aquino was killed after returning to the Philippines to challenge the dictatorship. His death became a catalyst for the revolution that eventually led to the restoration of democracy.

What is the significance of the phrase 'giving honor a nation in shame' mentioned by Mrs. Aquino?

The phrase refers to the way the Filipino people honored Ninoy Aquino's sacrifice by participating in the revolution against the dictatorship, despite the shame brought by the regime's actions.

What was Mrs. Aquino's stance on the communist insurgency in the Philippines?

Mrs. Aquino expressed her commitment to addressing the communist insurgency through political initiatives, local reintegration programs, and economic progress, rather than through the use of force.

What was the main economic challenge Mrs. Aquino discussed in her speech?

The main economic challenge discussed was the burden of the Philippines' foreign debt, which was incurred by the previous regime and now impacts the new democratic government's ability to provide for its people.

What was the request Mrs. Aquino made to the United States regarding their support for the Philippines?

Mrs. Aquino asked for the United States' help in preserving the democracy that the Filipino people fought for, and she sought a partnership to build a new home for democracy, emphasizing the shared commitment to freedom.