Maraming salamat, Tita Cory. paalam!

MANILA, Philippines - “I shall carry my responsibility for the well-being of the Filipinos beyond … to my grave.” Indeed, Tita Cory, to grave and beyond, will carry with her her undying love and selfless, sincere devotion for her kababayans. 

Undoubtedly, Tita Cory was the most-loved, most-prayed for, most-revered and most-idolized President ever. She had served our beloved Motherland with utmost truthfulness, humility and selflessness. Her genuine concern for us all was clearly and consistently manifested in word and in deed . . . even up to her dying moments and thereafter.

That Tita Cory, an icon of democracy, had left us on the same month of her husband’s martyrdom carries enormous significance! To both Ninoy and Tita Cory — we owe the air of freedom we breathe and the democracy we now enjoy! It was a husband-and-wife tandem unparalleled and unmatched in our history! Both devoted their lives for the welfare of our beloved land with all their hearts and might. Ninoy and Cory came into our lives at the most opportune time — at the crossroads of our country’s history. Both had the moral courage and indomitable spirit to reunite us and rescue us from the bondage of the dictator then, and now from the forces that continue to threaten our freedom and democracy.

As we express our superb admiration and bow our heads in respect, prayers and gratitude, may Tita Cory’s eternal love and sense of patriotism rub off on all of us — particularly on our leaders and officials, that they may discharge their duties and responsibilities to our country and people, whom they had sworn to serve … truthfully, selflessly, responsibly. Then and only then can we all claim that Ninoy and Cory’s deaths are not in vain. That truly, the Filipino is worth living and dying for!

“As we come, so shall we go.” Paalam, pinaka-mamahal naming Tita Cory! Walang hanggang pasasalamat for leading us courageously in seeking the truth; in standing for our convictions no matter the cost; in rising above all considerations when national interest so demands; in helping shape the future of our beloved land; in discharging our moral responsibilities to liberate our people from injustice, moral decadence and corruption; for leading us with your shining example. Above all, for making us realize that truly genuine and selfless service to our fellowmen is the HIGHEST and MOST NOBLE of legacies one can leave to our people.

In wholehearted gratitude, Tita Cory, know that you shall go with our love and prayers stemming from the deepest recesses of our hearts . . . as you reunite with your beloved husband, our hero, Ninoy. Madam President — a beacon of truth, morality and genuine devotion to all Filipinos — your shining, exemplary legacy shall live on FOREVER!!!