Wazzup Pilipinas!?
Today, as we remember the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino on what would have been her 91st birthday, a simple story about her visit to a Filipino family’s home serves as a poignant reminder of the leadership and values that she embodied. It’s a story that may seem small or trivial at first glance, but it speaks volumes about the essence of Cory Aquino’s character, leadership, and the kind of legacy she left behind for the Filipino people.
Cory Aquino wasn’t the first, nor the last, president to visit a family’s home, but she was the only one who slept in three different bedrooms in that home – before, during, and after her presidency. The story shared by this Filipino family highlights not just the high regard in which the former president held her constituents but also the discipline, respect, and decency that she instilled even in the most personal moments.
A Night to Remember: The Arrival of Cory Aquino
Four months after taking the oath of office, Cory Aquino visited the home of a Filipino family for a night that would be forever etched in their memories. Approximately 60 members of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) had to transform the family’s downstairs lanai into their quarters, ensuring her safety and well-being. But it wasn’t just the grand presence of the PSG that made this night remarkable – it was the humbling and exemplary behavior of the former president herself.
The night before her arrival, the PSG had already stationed themselves around the house. The family’s story is filled with the kind of attention to detail that was required to prepare for such an important visit. When the head of the household returned from the governor's office that evening, nearing midnight, he had to prove to the PSG that he belonged to the house they were guarding.
But what truly stood out wasn’t the heightened security measures or the preparations made for the president’s visit—it was the quiet discipline and respect exhibited by Cory Aquino and her team. Despite the heavy security presence, the family recalled how their father personally ensured that the PSG had everything they needed. He shared how the PSG refused to accept any form of hospitality, such as a cup of coffee or food, citing strict instructions not to disturb the household they were guarding. And when the PSG eventually left, they had left everything in perfect order—without disturbing a single thread of the furniture upholstery. The house was exactly as they found it, perhaps even neater.
Even more remarkable was the way Cory Aquino herself left the bedroom where she stayed. The bed was made, the room left spotless—an act of discipline and respect that resonated deeply with the family, particularly the matriarch, who used it as a life lesson for her children. She would often remind them, "If the President can make her own bed, shouldn't you make yours too?"
A Legacy of Respect and Service
In a world where power often comes with a sense of entitlement, Cory Aquino’s actions serve as a reminder of the rare decency that defined her leadership. The way she conducted herself, both in public and in private, demonstrated an innate respect for others, regardless of their status or position. It was this humility that made her beloved not only by those close to her but also by ordinary Filipinos who saw in her a symbol of integrity and service to the country.
The former president’s leadership was marked by selflessness, discipline, and an unyielding sense of duty. She was not only the first female president of the Philippines but also a trailblazer who fought for democracy and the restoration of the country’s freedom. Her leadership was rooted in love for her people and respect for the democratic process. This is the kind of leadership that is increasingly rare today, where those in positions of power often seem disconnected from the very people they are meant to serve.
Her Enduring Influence
Reflecting on the lessons Cory Aquino taught us, we can’t help but long for leaders who are guided by a sense of service rather than self-interest. In her own words:
"I would rather die a meaningful death than to live a meaningless life."
These words encapsulate the essence of her life—a life lived with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the people she served. As we honor her legacy today, we are reminded that the true measure of a leader is not in the power they wield, but in the respect they show others and the positive change they bring to their communities.
Though Cory Aquino may no longer be with us, her example continues to inspire us all. Her story teaches us that leadership is not about grandeur or titles, but about humility, decency, and respect. These qualities are timeless, and as we face the challenges of the present and future, we can only hope that the next generation of leaders will live up to the standard she set.
As we look back with pride on her presidency and the profound impact she had on the Philippines, we can only wish for more leaders who lead with the same selflessness and integrity. Cory Aquino will forever be remembered not just as a former president, but as a beacon of hope for a better, more respectful future for our country.
Happy 91st birthday, Cory Aquino. Thank you for making us proud to be Filipino.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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