Family, friends mark Ninoy's 25th death anniversary

MANILA, Philippines – The family and supporters of the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy" Aguino Jr gathered at the Manila Memorial Park Thursday morning to commemorate the hero's 25th death anniversary. GMA’s Flash Report said that Aquino’s wife, former President Corazon Aquino, even heard Mass at the said memorial park in Parañaque City where her husband is buried. Also attending the gathering was the Aquino couple’s daughter, television host Kris Aquino, who was also accompanied by her son Joshua. A number of politicians also graced the event including Liberal Party figures Senator Manuel “Mar" Roxas II and former Senate President Franklin Drilon. The Liberal Party personalities also offered flowers on the tomb of the late democracy advocate. Drilon and Roaxas said they would carry on what Ninoy had fought for before he was gunned down at the tarmac of the then Manila International Airport on August 21, 1983. The airport has since been named after the slain senator. Among the highlights of Ninoy's 25th death anniversary, which started early this week, was the installation of his bronze bust at the NAIA 3 terminal on Monday. The Ross Arcilla creation, which is erected on a two-meter granite pedestal, was given by the Cheng family to the Aquinos seven years ago. Its installation, however, had to be put on hold, pending the completion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal III. Environment Sec. Jose "Lito" Atienza on Thursday led the unveiling of a locally bred orchid that was named after Ninoy, who was a staunch critic of the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos. On Wednesday, Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, an ally of Mrs Aquino who heads the PDP-Laban Party, led a wreath-laying ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino statue at Makati City’s business district. - GMANews.TV