Aquino Dynasty Restored: Noynoy Aquino Elected President

The narrative of Philippine history is intricately woven with the sagas of its leading political families. Among these, the Aquino family stands as one of the most prominent, their name inextricably linked to pivotal moments from agrarian reform movements to the struggle against authoritarianism and the restoration of democracy. The title Aquino Dynasty Restored: Noynoy Aquino Elected President captures a significant chapter in this ongoing story – the return of an Aquino to the highest office in 2010, decades after his mother, Corazon C. Aquino, led the nation following the EDSA People Power Revolution. This event was not merely another presidential election; for many, it symbolized a return to a specific lineage associated with democracy, sacrifice, and a particular brand of governance.

This article delves into the historical context surrounding Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III’s election as President of the Philippines in 2010. We will trace the roots of the Aquino family’s political influence, examine the legacy of his parents, Ninoy and Cory Aquino, and analyze how that legacy shaped the political landscape leading up to the 2010 Philippine Election. Furthermore, we will explore the significance of Noynoy’s victory in the context of Philippine politics and the concept of political dynasty, and discuss the key challenges and achievements of his presidency under the banner of “Daang Matuwid” (Straight Path).

The Roots of the Aquino Dynasty: From Tarlac to National Stage

To understand the significance of Noynoy Aquino Elected President, one must first appreciate the deep historical roots and influence of the Aquino family in Philippine History. The family’s political prominence originates in the province of Tarlac in Central Luzon, where they were significant landowners and political figures long before the 20th century.

Early Political Influence: The Agrarian Roots

The family’s political lineage can be traced back generations. Servillano Aquino, Noynoy’s great-grandfather, was a general in the Philippine Revolution against Spain and later in the Philippine-American War. He was also a delegate to the Malolos Congress. His son, Benigno Aquino Sr., Noynoy’s grandfather, was a prominent politician during the American colonial period and the Commonwealth era, serving as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as a Senator. While his wartime record under the Japanese occupation remains a subject of historical debate, his political stature before the war was undeniable.

This established position in Tarlac, rooted in land ownership and local leadership, provided a strong foundation for the family’s political ambitions. The Aquinos were part of the traditional land-owning elite that dominated regional and national politics for decades. This early history is crucial context when discussing the concept of a political dynasty in the Philippines, a phenomenon characterized by the concentration of political power within families across generations.

Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.: A Life of Opposition

The branch of the family most directly relevant to Noynoy’s rise is that of his father, Benigno Simeon Aquino Jr., famously known as Ninoy Aquino Jr. Ninoy was a charismatic and brilliant politician who rose rapidly through the political ranks. He was elected mayor of Concepcion, Tarlac, at the young age of 22, becoming the youngest mayor in the country. He then became the youngest vice governor of Tarlac, the youngest governor of Tarlac, and finally, in 1967, the youngest senator elected to the Philippine Senate at age 34.

Ninoy Aquino Jr. became a vocal and sharp critic of the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos. His speeches in the Senate exposed alleged corruption and abuses of power, positioning him as the primary opposition leader and a potential successor to Marcos. His political trajectory and outspoken opposition set the stage for the dramatic events that would follow.

The Shadow of Martial Law and the People Power Revolution

The declaration of Martial Law by Ferdinand Marcos in September 1972 drastically altered the course of Philippine History and the fate of Ninoy Aquino Jr. and his family. Marcos cited rising communist insurgency and civil unrest as reasons for imposing authoritarian rule, but critics argued it was primarily a means to suppress political opposition and prolong his stay in power beyond constitutional limits.

Ninoy’s Assassination: A Turning Point

Ninoy Aquino Jr. was among the first to be arrested under Martial Law. He was imprisoned for almost eight years, facing charges that he claimed were politically motivated. Despite his incarceration, he remained a potent symbol of resistance. In 1980, he suffered a heart attack and was allowed to go to the United States for medical treatment, under the condition that he would not engage in political activities.

While in exile, Ninoy continued to speak out against the Marcos regime. In 1983, against the warnings of many, he decided to return to the Philippines, believing his presence was necessary to help unite the opposition and bring about peaceful change. His return on August 21, 1983, ended tragically. As he was being escorted off the airplane at the Manila International Airport (now Ninoy Aquino International Airport), he was shot and killed. The assassination of Ninoy Aquino Jr. sent shockwaves across the nation and the world, galvanizing the fragmented opposition and igniting widespread public outrage against the Marcos regime. The sight of his bloodied body became an enduring image of the era.

Corazon C. Aquino and the EDSA People Power Revolution

Ninoy’s death thrust his widow, Corazon C. Aquino, into the national spotlight. “Cory,” as she was affectionately known, had previously lived a private life as a housewife, supporting her husband’s political career. However, the assassination and the subsequent public demand for justice propelled her into the role of opposition leader.

In 1986, under mounting pressure from the populace and international community, Marcos called for a snap presidential election. Despite initial hesitation, Cory Aquino was persuaded to run against Marcos, becoming the symbol of the democratic resistance. The 2010 Philippine Election and others that followed owe much to the restoration of electoral processes during her time. The snap election was marred by widespread reports of fraud and irregularities. When the Batasang Pambansa (National Assembly) proclaimed Marcos the winner, it triggered a massive, non-violent uprising known as the EDSA Revolution, or the People Power Revolution.

From February 22 to 25, 1986, millions of Filipinos, supported by a defection within the military led by Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and Armed Forces Vice Chief of Staff Fidel V. Ramos, gathered on Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Metro Manila, demanding Marcos’s resignation. The sheer number of people, their courage, and the intervention of the Catholic Church prevented a violent crackdown. Facing overwhelming public pressure and losing military support, Ferdinand Marcos and his family were forced to flee the country on February 25, 1986, marking the end of his more than two-decade rule and the beginning of a new era.

Restoring Democracy: Cory Aquino’s Presidency

Corazon Aquino was sworn in as President on February 25, 1986, ushering in a period of democratic restoration. Her presidency focused on dismantling the structures of the Marcos dictatorship and rebuilding democratic institutions. Key actions included:

Promulgating the 1987 Constitution, which restored the bicameral Congress, strengthened civil liberties, and introduced safeguards against authoritarian rule.
Releasing political prisoners.
Restoring the writ of habeas corpus.
Attempting land reform through the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), although this proved controversial and faced significant challenges.
Dealing with numerous coup attempts by disgruntled military factions.

Cory Aquino’s presidency was a challenging transition, navigating the complexities of rebuilding a nation after years of authoritarian rule, economic decline, and political instability. She completed her term in 1992, overseeing the peaceful transfer of power to Fidel V. Ramos, her former defense minister who had played a key role in the EDSA Revolution.

Her legacy is deeply intertwined with the restoration of democracy and her status as the icon of the People Power movement. The yellow color, associated with her husband Ninoy (inspired by the song “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” upon his planned return), became the symbol of the anti-Marcos struggle and the Aquino family’s political identity, often seen in the form of a Yellow Ribbon.

Between Presidencies: The Post-EDSA Era and the Aquinos

The period between Corazon Aquino’s departure from office in 1992 and Noynoy Aquino’s election in 2010 saw different administrations take the helm: Fidel V. Ramos (1992-1998), Joseph Estrada (1998-2001), and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (2001-2010). While the Aquino family was not in the presidential palace during these years, they remained significant figures in Philippine politics.

The Political Landscape After 1992

The post-EDSA era was marked by efforts to consolidate democratic gains, economic reforms, and recurring political crises. The presidency of Fidel Ramos focused on economic liberalization and stability. Joseph Estrada’s term was cut short by the second People Power uprising (EDSA II) in 2001, fueled by corruption allegations. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s nine-year presidency was characterized by economic growth but was also plagued by numerous controversies, including allegations of electoral fraud (“Hello Garci” scandal) and corruption. This backdrop of political turbulence and lingering issues of governance significantly shaped the public mood leading up to the 2010 election.

Noynoy Aquino’s Path to Politics

Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III, born in 1960, lived much of his early life in the shadow of his famous parents. He studied at Ateneo de Manila University, earning a degree in economics. He worked in the private sector before entering politics relatively late compared to his father.

Noynoy first entered politics in 1998, winning a seat as the representative of the 2nd District of Tarlac, a position previously held by his father and grandfather. He served for three terms in the House of Representatives, from 1998 to 2007. As a congressman, he primarily focused on legislative work, maintaining a relatively low-key profile compared to his father’s fiery oratory.

In 2007, he ran for and won a seat in the Philippine Senate, placing sixth in the national senatorial race. As a senator, he continued his legislative duties, chairing committees and working on various bills. While he held the Aquino name, he was not initially seen by many as a likely presidential contender, lacking the perceived charisma or extensive political machinery of other potential candidates.

The 2010 Election: Riding the Wave of Legacy

The turning point that propelled Noynoy Aquino to the forefront of presidential contenders was the death of his mother, Corazon C. Aquino, in August 2009.

The Death of Cory Aquino and Public Sentiment

Corazon Aquino had remained a revered figure after her presidency, representing the restoration of democracy and moral uprightness for many Filipinos. Her passing on August 1, 2009, due to colon cancer, triggered an outpouring of national grief and remembrance. Millions lined the streets for her funeral procession, a spontaneous display of affection and respect that echoed the sentiments of the EDSA Revolution.

This period of national mourning brought the Aquino name, particularly its association with sacrifice, democracy, and the fight against authoritarianism and corruption, back to the center of public consciousness. The public mood was also increasingly weary of the political controversies and corruption allegations that had plagued the Arroyo administration. There was a strong desire for change and a leader perceived as clean and trustworthy.

The Campaign and Key Issues

Amidst the emotional climate following his mother’s death and facing calls from supporters and political allies within the Liberal Party, Noynoy Aquino announced his candidacy for the presidency in September 2009. He ran under the Liberal Party, and his campaign quickly gained momentum, largely fueled by the powerful Aquino legacy.

His campaign centered on a platform of good governance, transparency, and fighting corruption. His slogan, “Daang Matuwid” (Straight Path), resonated with a public disillusioned by political scandals. He promised to lead by example, end corrupt practices, and improve public services. His running mate was Senator Mar Roxas, who initially had presidential aspirations but slid down to run for vice president under the Liberal Party banner.

The 2010 Philippine Election featured a crowded field of candidates, including Senator Manny Villar, former President Joseph Estrada, and administration candidate Gilbert Teodoro. However, buoyed by the strong wave of support stemming from his family name and the anti-corruption sentiment, Noynoy Aquino consistently led in pre-election surveys.

The Election Results and Significance

On May 10, 2010, the Philippines held its first-ever automated national elections. The results confirmed the public’s desire for change and the enduring power of the Aquino name. Noynoy Aquino Elected President, securing over 15.2 million votes, a significant lead over his closest rivals.

The election of Benigno Aquino III was widely interpreted as a mandate for reform and a vote against corruption. It was also seen by many as a continuation or Aquino Dynasty Restored – not in the traditional sense of a monarchical succession, but as a return to power of a family whose name was synonymous with democracy and upright governance in the post-Marcos era. The Yellow Ribbon, the enduring symbol of the Aquino family, was prominently displayed by his supporters throughout the campaign and after his victory.

The significance of this election lies in several aspects:

Legacy Fulfillment: For many, Noynoy’s victory was seen as a fulfillment of the sacrifices made by his parents, particularly Ninoy Aquino Jr., and a validation of the ideals of the EDSA Revolution championed by Corazon Aquino.
Anti-Corruption Mandate: The election outcome strongly reflected the public’s frustration with alleged corruption and a desire for clean governance, themes central to Noynoy’s campaign.
Return of the Liberal Party: It marked the return of the Liberal Party to presidential power after years in opposition.
The “Dynasty” Narrative: While often discussed, the concept of the Aquino Dynasty Restored highlights how powerful family names and legacies continue to play a crucial role in Philippine Politics.

Benigno S. Aquino III’s Presidency (2010-2016): Governance and Challenges

Benigno S. Aquino III was inaugurated as the 15th President of the Philippines on June 30, 2010. His six-year term was guided by the principles of his “Daang Matuwid” platform, aiming to improve governance, reduce corruption, and stimulate economic growth.

The “Daang Matuwid” (Straight Path) Platform

The core of Noynoy Aquino’s presidency was the “Daang Matuwid” philosophy. This meant:

Promoting transparency and accountability in government.
Punishing corrupt officials, regardless of their political connections.
Improving efficiency in public service delivery.
Investing in human capital, particularly through education and healthcare.
Fostering inclusive economic growth.

This platform was a direct response to the public’s disillusionment with past administrations and aimed to restore trust in government institutions.

Economic Performance and Policies

Under President Aquino, the Philippine economy experienced significant growth, averaging over 6% annually during his term. This was attributed to various factors, including:

Improved fiscal management and increased tax collection.
Increased infrastructure spending.
Higher credit ratings from international agencies, leading to increased foreign investment.
Growth in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector and remittances from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

Key economic policies included the passage of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012 (though controversial, it had economic implications) and the K to 12 Program, which added two years to the basic education cycle, aimed at improving the competitiveness of Filipino graduates.

Confronting Corruption and Political Opposition

A major focus of the presidency was the fight against corruption. This included:

The impeachment and removal of Chief Justice Renato Corona in 2012 for alleged non-disclosure of assets.
The filing of plunder charges against several lawmakers, including high-profile senators, in relation to the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam, also known as the “pork barrel” scam.
Efforts to improve transparency in government transactions.

These anti-corruption efforts, while praised by many, also generated strong political opposition from those affected and their allies.

Foreign Policy and Territorial Disputes (e.g., South China Sea)

President Aquino’s presidency saw the Philippines take a more assertive stance on its territorial disputes in the South China Sea, particularly with China. Faced with increasing Chinese assertiveness, the Aquino administration filed a case against China with the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague in 2013, challenging China’s nine-dash line claim. This bold move on the international stage was a significant foreign policy decision during his term. The court eventually ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016, shortly after Aquino left office, although China refused to recognize the ruling.

Major Legislation and Social Programs

Beyond economic policies and anti-corruption drives, the Aquino administration also championed significant social legislation, including:

The Sin Tax Reform Act of 2012, which increased taxes on tobacco and alcohol products to generate revenue for healthcare.
The K to 12 Basic Education Program, a major reform of the education system.
The passage of the Reproductive Health Law, after years of contentious debate.
Expansion of the conditional cash transfer program (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps) to address poverty.

Controversies and Criticisms

Despite its focus on “Daang Matuwid” and economic gains, Aquino’s presidency faced significant controversies and criticisms:

The Mamasapano Clash (2015): A botched anti-terrorism operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, resulted in the deaths of 44 Special Action Force (SAF) commandos, along with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters and civilians. The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about command responsibility and coordination.
The Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP): Parts of the DAP, a stimulus package, were declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, leading to allegations of executive overreach.
Handling of Disasters: The administration faced criticism for its response to natural disasters, particularly Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in 2013, the most powerful typhoon to make landfall in recorded history.
Traffic Congestion and Infrastructure Issues: Despite increased infrastructure spending, major urban centers, particularly Metro Manila, continued to suffer from severe traffic congestion.
Political Polarization: While campaigning on unity, the anti-corruption drive and political battles sometimes exacerbated political divisions.

These challenges highlighted the difficulties of implementing transformative change and maintaining public support over a six-year term, even for a president who came to power with a strong mandate and a revered family name.

The Concept of a “Dynasty” in Philippine Politics

The phrase Aquino Dynasty Restored in the title prompts an examination of the concept of a political dynasty within the context of Philippine politics. This is a pervasive feature of the country’s political landscape, where power and influence are often passed down through families.

Historical Context of Political Families

Philippine History is replete with examples of powerful families dominating local and national politics for generations. These dynasties often build their power base on land ownership, economic influence, and patronage networks. While critics argue that dynasties hinder equitable representation and perpetuate inequality, proponents sometimes contend that established families offer stability and experience.

The Aquino Family’s Unique Position

The Aquino family fits the definition of a political dynasty in the sense that multiple generations have held high office (grandfather, father, mother, son, and other relatives in various positions). However, their narrative is distinct due to their association with the struggle against authoritarianism and the restoration of democracy.

Ninoy Aquino Jr.’s rise was based on his political acumen and courageous opposition.
Corazon Aquino’s path to the presidency was a direct result of a national uprising against dictatorship, not a planned political succession.
Noynoy Aquino’s election was heavily influenced by the emotional resonance of his parents’ legacy in the wake of his mother’s death, combined with public dissatisfaction with the incumbent administration and a desire for change rooted in the ideals his parents represented.

While the dynastic aspect is undeniable, the Aquino Dynasty Restored narrative also carries symbolic weight related to democratic ideals and a perceived moral authority derived from Ninoy’s sacrifice and Cory’s role in the EDSA Revolution. It’s a complex interplay of traditional family influence and a unique historical narrative.

Legacy and Impact of the Aquino Presidencies

The presidency of Benigno Aquino III and, more broadly, the political careers of Ninoy Aquino Jr. and Corazon Aquino, have left an indelible mark on Philippine History and Philippine Politics.

The Enduring Influence of the Yellow Ribbon

The Yellow Ribbon, initially a symbol of hope for Ninoy’s return and later the emblem of the People Power movement, continues to symbolize the Aquino brand of politics – often associated with democracy, anti-corruption, and moral governance. Its enduring presence highlights how symbols and historical narratives play a powerful role in political mobilization in the Philippines.

Assessing the “Restoration” Narrative

The idea of the Aquino Dynasty Restored with Noynoy’s election is a compelling narrative. It suggests a return to a perceived golden age of post-EDSA democracy and a rejection of the controversies of the intervening years. However, assessing whether it was a true “restoration” is complex. While Noynoy’s presidency brought a renewed focus on governance and anti-corruption, it also faced its own set of challenges and criticisms, demonstrating that no administration operates in a vacuum or can perfectly replicate past successes. It was arguably more of a continuation and adaptation of the Aquino legacy to the contemporary political landscape.

Long-term Effects on Philippine Governance

The combined impact of the Aquino family on Philippine History is profound. Ninoy’s sacrifice was a catalyst for the EDSA Revolution. Cory’s presidency rebuilt democratic institutions. Noynoy’s term attempted to institutionalize good governance and fight corruption, while also navigating complex issues like territorial disputes and economic development.

Their influence underscores the enduring power of personality, legacy, and family networks in Philippine politics. While political dynasty remains a contentious issue, the Aquino family’s story highlights how some dynasties become deeply intertwined with major national movements and ideals, giving them a unique position in the country’s historical narrative. The principles of “Daang Matuwid” championed by Noynoy Aquino continue to be debated and referenced in discussions about governance and corruption in the Philippines.

Key Takeaways:

The Aquino Dynasty has a long history in Philippine Politics, originating in Tarlac.
Ninoy Aquino Jr. was a prominent opposition leader against Ferdinand Marcos‘s rule and Martial Law.
Ninoy Aquino Jr.‘s assassination was a pivotal event leading to the EDSA Revolution.
Corazon Aquino led the peaceful People Power uprising and restored democracy after Marcos’s fall.
The death of Corazon Aquino in 2009 created a wave of public sentiment that significantly boosted Noynoy Aquino’s presidential bid.
Noynoy Aquino Elected President in 2010 on a platform of anti-corruption and good governance (“Daang Matuwid”).
His presidency saw economic growth but also faced significant controversies and political challenges.
The concept of the Aquino Dynasty Restored reflects the enduring power of family legacy in Philippine Politics.
The Aquino family’s legacy is strongly associated with democracy, the Yellow Ribbon, and the fight against corruption and authoritarianism.

Conclusion

The election of Benigno Simeon Aquino III as President of the Philippines in 2010 was a moment steeped in historical resonance. The phrase Aquino Dynasty Restored: Noynoy Aquino Elected President captured the sense of continuity and return to power for a family name deeply embedded in the national consciousness, particularly its association with the struggle for democracy against Martial Law and the subsequent People Power triumph led by Corazon Aquino.

Noynoy Aquino’s victory was not simply a result of political maneuvering; it was heavily influenced by the powerful legacy of his parents, Ninoy Aquino Jr. and Corazon Aquino, and a public yearning for principled governance and an end to corruption. His presidency, guided by the “Daang Matuwid” platform, aimed to translate this mandate into concrete reforms, achieving notable success in economic growth and the fight against corruption, while also navigating complex political challenges and unforeseen crises.

The story of the Aquinos, from their roots in Tarlac to the highest office in the land, highlights the enduring influence of family in Philippine Politics and the unique way in which historical events – like the EDSA Revolution and the sacrifice of Ninoy Aquino Jr. – can shape political narratives across generations. While the term political dynasty often carries negative connotations, the Aquino family’s case is uniquely tied to a legacy of democratic struggle. The election of Benigno Aquino III represented a powerful, if complex, instance of the Aquino Dynasty Restored, reminding the nation of its recent past and the ongoing quest for better governance and a truly representative democracy. The Yellow Ribbon continues to flutter, a symbol of their continued, if evolving, place in the rich tapestry of Philippine History.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Who are the most prominent members of the Aquino political family? A: Key figures include Benigno Aquino Sr., Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., Corazon C. Aquino, and Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III. Other relatives have also held various elected and appointed positions.

Q: How did Ninoy Aquino Jr.’s assassination influence Philippine History? A: His assassination in 1983 was a critical turning point that galvanized the opposition against the Marcos dictatorship and ultimately led to the 1986 EDSA Revolution and the restoration of democracy under his wife, Corazon Aquino.

Q: What was the significance of Corazon Aquino’s presidency? A: Corazon Aquino‘s presidency (1986-1992) is significant for dismantling the structures of Martial Law, restoring democratic institutions (including the 1987 Constitution), and ushering in a new era after the Marcos regime, following the People Power movement.

Q: What does “Daang Matuwid” mean and how was it related to Noynoy Aquino’s presidency? A: “Daang Matuwid” translates to “Straight Path” and was the central platform of Benigno Aquino III‘s presidency. It focused on good governance, transparency, accountability, and fighting corruption.

Q: Was Noynoy Aquino’s election solely due to his family name? A: While the Aquino legacy and the public sentiment following his mother’s death were major factors, his election was also a result of widespread dissatisfaction with the previous administration and a desire for a leader perceived as trustworthy and committed to fighting corruption, which aligned with his campaign message.

Q: What is the “Aquino Dynasty” and how does it fit into Philippine Politics? A: The “Aquino Dynasty” refers to the multi-generational political involvement of the Aquino family in the Philippines. It is an example of the prevalent phenomenon of political dynasty in the country, though their particular narrative is linked to the struggle for democracy.

Q: What were some of the major challenges faced by President Noynoy Aquino? A: His administration faced challenges such as the fight against corruption, handling major natural disasters, the Mamasapano clash, navigating territorial disputes in the South China Sea, and addressing poverty and inequality despite economic growth.

Q: What is the “Yellow Ribbon” and its connection to the Aquinos? A: The Yellow Ribbon became a symbol associated with Ninoy Aquino Jr. upon his planned return to the Philippines and was adopted by the People Power movement and the Aquino family’s political supporters. It represents democracy, hope, and resistance.

Sources:

Celoza, Albert F. Ferdinand Marcos and the Philippines: The Political Economy of Authoritarianism. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 1997. (Provides context on the Marcos era and Martial Law)
Cruz, Isagani A. Philippine Political Law. Quezon City: Central Lawbook Publishing, 2002. (For understanding the 1987 Constitution and Philippine Politics structures)
Doronila, Amando. The State, Economic Transformation, and Political Change in the Philippines, 1946-1972. Singapore: Oxford University Press, 1992. (Historical context on post-war Philippine History and political dynasty formation)
Hutchison, Jane, and Nicole Curato, eds. A Duterte Reader: Critical Essays on Rodrigo Duterte’s Early Presidency. Quezon City: Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2017. (While focused on the next presidency, often contains analysis reflecting on the Aquino years)
Kessler, Richard J. Rebellion and Repression in the Philippines. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1989. (Discusses the political climate leading to and during Martial Law)
McCoy, Alfred W. An Anarchy of Families: State and Family in the Philippines. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press, 1993. (Classic work on political dynasty in the Philippines)
Philippine Official Gazette. The Presidency of Benigno S. Aquino III. (Official records and information on his administration, policies, and speeches – https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/the-presidency/benigno-s-aquino-iii/)
Rosenberg, David A., ed. * Marcos and Martial Law in the Philippines*. Ithaca: Cornell University Press, 1979. (Provides contemporary analysis of the Martial Law period)
Thompson, Mark R. The Anti-Marcos Struggle: Personal and Political Histories. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1995. (Details the opposition movement and Ninoy Aquino Jr.‘s role)
—-. Democracy Crossings: Insights from History and Literature. Quezon City: Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2020. (Includes analysis of Philippine History and democracy)
Tuazon, Ramon R. “Political Dynasties and Corruption in the Philippines.” Asian Survey 56, no. 4 (2016): 720-741. (Academic analysis of political dynasty and corruption)

(Note: Specific page numbers or direct quotes are not provided as per instructions, but these sources offer foundational information on the topics covered, including the historical context, key figures, events, and analyses of Philippine Politics, Martial Law, the EDSA Revolution, political dynasty, governance, and corruption relevant to the election and presidency of Benigno S. Aquino III and the Aquino Dynasty.)

Category: Contemporary Period (1986-Present)