Nene tells about martial law experience in new book

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Jr. believes that memories of personal struggle during martial law should be immortalized to serve as an inspiration to the young.

In his 562-page book, "Martial Law in the Philippines: My Story," Pimentel recalled the struggle of people to free themselves from authoritarian rule.

Published by Cachos Hermanos, the book was launched at the Manila Hotel yesterday.

"I wrote it principally to unburden myself about the things that happened during martial law which oppressed me and a lot of other people," Pimentel said.

Pimentel said his book covers a period of two years and carries introductions by former President Corazon Aquino and Sen. Joker Arroyo.

"Martial law came and destroyed lives, not only my life at that time but also the lives of many unknown, unconnected and powerless people," he said.

"And I want to recall their struggle."

In narrating the events of martial law from his personal viewpoint, Pimentel said he wanted to inform Filipinos, especially the youth, who have no direct knowledge of what happened during those years.

Former President Ferdinand Marcos imposed martial law in 1972, and it was lifted, nominally, in 1981. Marcos retained power until his ouster in 1986, however.

"I think they should see for themselves how it was through my eyes, and probably tell themselves and their generations, never again," he said.

The book tells the story of Pimentel and how his family from Cagayan de Oro City coped with the difficulties martial law brought to their lives.

Despite threats to his life and the travails of his family, Pimentel ran for mayor of Cagayan de Oro during that time, winning by a large margin.

Later, he was falsely implicated in a plot against Marcos, and was jailed after he refused bail from his supporters and friends.

In the 1986 snap presidential elections, Pimentel played a leading role in shaping the opposition party that challenged the Marcos dictatorship, leading to the election of Corazon Aquino, widow of Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr., as president, and former Sen. Salvador Laurel as vice president.

He also played a key role in the ouster of Marcos.

Critics have praised the book as a comprehensive, accurate and exceptional record of the national struggle for the restoration of democracy. — Edu Punay