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02-25-1986
In 1986, President Ferdinand Marcos fled the Philippines after 20 years of rule in the wake of a tainted election; Corazon Aquino assumed the presidency.
In February 1986, the Philippines experienced a seismic shift in its political landscape as President Ferdinand Marcos, who had ruled the nation for two decades, fled the country amid widespread public unrest. The catalyst for this upheaval was the controversial snap elections held on February 7, which many deemed marred by significant fraud and electoral manipulation. Although Marcos declared a victory, the outcome sparked immediate outrage among the Filipino populace, culminating in mass protests that called for democratic reforms and an end to his authoritarian regime. At the heart of the opposition movement was Corazon Aquino, a former senator and the widow of assassinated opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. Aquino emerged as the symbol of hope for millions of Filipinos disillusioned with Marcos’s corrupt administration. Her candidacy gained overwhelming support, especially after the alleged electoral fraud became apparent, rallying the citizens around the cry for “People Power.” On February 22, in the midst of mounting protests and military defections, Marcos and his family sought refuge, ultimately escaping to Hawaii. His departure was a watershed moment that was celebrated across the nation, signaling an end to a regime characterized by martial law, human rights abuses, and an entrenched elite. Following Marcos's exile, Corazon Aquino was proclaimed president, becoming the first female leader of the Philippines. Aquino’s ascent to power marked the beginning of a new era for the country, one that was defined by struggles to rebuild democratic institutions and address the legacy of dictatorship. The events of 1986 would resonate through Filipino history, symbolizing the power of collective action and the enduring quest for democracy in the face of tyranny. Thus, the “People Power Revolution” became a pivotal moment not only for the Philippines but also for those seeking freedom worldwide.
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