Kris Aquino and Aquino Family Fire Back at VP Sara Duterte: “Don’t Twist Ninoy’s History to Defend Duterte!

The Aquino family has issued a response to Vice President Sara Duterte’s statement comparing the situation of former President Rodrigo Duterte to that of Ninoy Aquino. In a strong and clear message, they emphasized that historical facts reveal stark differences between what Ninoy Aquino endured and the current circumstances of the former president.

The statement from the Aquino family reads:
“If we study history, we will see that what was done to Ninoy is very different from what former President Duterte is going through now.”

Historical Context: The Case of Ninoy Aquino

Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., one of the most prominent opposition figures during the Martial Law era, was assassinated on August 21, 1983, at the Manila International Airport. His assassination became a catalyst for widespread protests, ultimately leading to the downfall of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s dictatorship.

Ninoy’s imprisonment, exile, and eventual assassination were seen as part of a larger crackdown on dissent under the Marcos regime, marking one of the darkest periods in Philippine history. His sacrifice is widely recognized as a pivotal moment in the country’s fight for democracy.

Duterte’s Legal Troubles

In contrast, former President Rodrigo Duterte is currently facing legal challenges, particularly an investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over allegations of extrajudicial killings linked to his controversial war on drugs. While his supporters argue that these cases are politically motivated, critics insist that Duterte must be held accountable for human rights violations committed during his administration.

The Aquino Family’s Stand

By highlighting the historical context, the Aquino family underscores that Ninoy Aquino’s struggles were not the same as Duterte’s current legal battles. They point out that Ninoy was a victim of a brutal dictatorship, whereas Duterte is being investigated for actions taken during his own presidency.

This response from the Aquino family challenges the comparison made by VP Sara Duterte, reminding Filipinos of the importance of historical accuracy and the need to distinguish between political persecution and legal accountability.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this will impact the ongoing political landscape in the Philippines.