In 2024, the holiday will be moved to Friday, August 23rd, as declared by President Bongbong Marcos through Proclamation No. 665, to create a longer weekend that would encourage domestic tourism.

The Life and Struggle of Ninoy Aquino

Born on November 27, 1932, in Tarlac, Philippines, Benigno Simeon Aquino Jr. was destined for a life of public service. He began his career as a journalist and quickly rose through the political ranks, becoming the youngest mayor at age 22, the youngest vice-governor at 27, the youngest governor at 29, and the youngest senator at 34.

However, his political journey took a dramatic turn when martial law was declared in 1972 by then-President Ferdinand Marcos. Aquino, a vocal critic of the authoritarian regime, was arrested and imprisoned for nearly eight years. Despite the hardships he faced, Aquino remained committed to his fight for democracy and against the oppression of the Filipino people.

Released in 1980 for medical treatment in the United States, Aquino chose to remain in exile, using the platform to denounce Marcos’ injustices. In 1983, driven by his desire to liberate his nation, Aquino made the fateful decision to return to the Philippines. Tragically, he was assassinated upon his arrival at Manila International Airport (now renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport in his honor) on August 21, 1983.

The Spark of the People Power Revolution

Aquino’s assassination sent shockwaves throughout the nation and sparked the People Power Revolution, a peaceful uprising fueled by millions of Filipinos demanding change. His death became the catalyst that ultimately led to the downfall of the Marcos regime and the restoration of democracy in the Philippines.

Aquino’s wife, Corazon Aquino, emerged as a symbol of the resistance and was propelled into the political spotlight. She went on to become the 11th President of the Philippines, leading the country through a crucial period of transition and reform.

Establishing Ninoy Aquino Day

In 2004, 21 years after his death and 18 years after the People Power Revolution, Republic Act No. 9256 was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, officially establishing August 21st as Ninoy Aquino Day. The holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for freedom and justice, and it provides an opportunity for Filipinos to reflect on Aquino’s sacrifice and the values he upheld.

Observing Ninoy Aquino Day 2024

On Ninoy Aquino Day, various events and activities are organized across the country to celebrate Aquino’s life and legacy. The EDSA People Power Commission (EPPC) is tasked with holding activities in observance of the day, which may include parades, speeches, and other celebratory events.

One of the most significant places to visit on this day is the Ninoy Aquino Monument in Makati, which marks the spot where Aquino was assassinated. The monument symbolizes the Filipino people’s fight against dictatorship and their pursuit of democracy, making it a poignant place for reflection and remembrance.

Other notable locations to celebrate Ninoy Aquino Day include:

• Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City, a 23.85-hectare urban oasis that serves as a sanctuary for both people and wildlife.
• Manila Chinatown, also known as Binondo, the oldest Chinatown outside mainland China, where visitors can support local businesses and immerse themselves in the rich cultural diversity.
• Taman Makam Pahlawan Nasional in Taguig City, the final resting place of Ninoy Aquino and other national heroes, where visitors can pay their respects and delve into Philippine history.

For those seeking a meaningful staycation during the long weekend, hotels like Maayo Hotel in Mandaue, Cebu, Citadines Salcedo Makati, and Zuri Hotel in Iloilo offer convenient access to historical sites and opportunities for reflection and relaxation.

Remembering Ninoy Aquino’s Words of Wisdom

As we commemorate Ninoy Aquino Day, it is essential to recall the powerful words and principles that guided his life and struggle. Here are five memorable quotes that encapsulate his spirit and legacy:

1. “We must transcend our petty selves, forget our hurts and bitterness, cast aside thought of revenge, and let sanity, reason, and above all, love of country prevail during our gravest hour.”
2. “The only advice I can give you: live with honor and follow your conscience.”
3. “The moment you say no to tyranny, you are beginning the struggle, the long lonely road to freedom.”
4. “I have asked myself many times: Is the Filipino worth suffering, or even dying, for? … I have come to the conclusion that he is worth dying for because he is the nation’s greatest untapped resource.”
5. “There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.”

These words serve as a reminder of the values that Ninoy Aquino upheld: love for country, integrity, courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to the Filipino people.

A Call for Unity and Progress

As the Philippines celebrates Ninoy Aquino Day in 2024, President Bongbong Marcos, the son of former President Ferdinand Marcos, has called on Filipinos to “transcend political barriers” and work towards a more united and prosperous nation.

In his official message, President Marcos acknowledged Aquino’s bravery and resolve, stating, “By standing for his beliefs and fighting for battles he deemed right, he became an example of relentlessness and resolve for many Filipinos.”The president’s message emphasizes the importance of unity, collaboration, and progress, urging Filipinos to “imbue ourselves with clarity of mind and unity in purpose” to build a future that resonates with the hopes and dreams of the people.

Final Thoughts

Ninoy Aquino Day 2024 serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of democracy and freedom in the Philippines. As the nation reflects on Aquino’s legacy, it is crucial to embody the values he stood for: courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the Filipino people.

By transcending political barriers, working towards unity, and striving for progress, the Philippines can honor Aquino’s memory and build a brighter future for all. On this day, let us remember Ninoy Aquino’s famous words: “The Filipino is worth dying for.”

The post Ninoy Aquino Day 2024: Remembering a Hero’s Legacy appeared first on HyperLocal PH.

1. Early Life and Introduction to Gymnastics

Carlos Edriel Poquiz Yulo was born on February 16, 2000, in Manila, Philippines. He discovered his passion for gymnastics at the age of seven, inspired by his older brother who was also a gymnast. His grandfather noticed his natural talent and introduced him to the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines, where he began formal training.

2. Training in Japan

At the age of 13, Carlos moved to Japan to train under the guidance of Japanese coach Munehiro Kugimiya. This decision significantly enhanced his skills and contributed to his success on the international stage. His training regimen in Japan is rigorous, with sessions lasting about eight hours a day, six days a week.

3. Historic Achievements

Carlos Yulo made history by becoming the first Filipino and the first male Southeast Asian gymnast to win a gold medal at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. He achieved this feat in 2019 in the floor exercise event. Prior to this, he had already made a mark by winning a bronze medal in the same event in 2018.

4. Olympic Journey

Carlos qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the second Filipino gymnast to do so after EJ Obiena. Although he did not win a medal, his participation marked a significant milestone in his career, and he continues to aim for Olympic success in future competitions.

5. Impact on Philippine Sports

Carlos Yulo’s success has brought significant attention to gymnastics in the Philippines, a sport that previously received little recognition. His achievements have inspired many young athletes in the country and have led to increased support and funding for gymnastics programs.

6. Personal Interests

Despite his demanding training schedule, Carlos enjoys playing video games, particularly mobile games, in his free time. He is also a fan of anime, which he often watches to relax after training sessions.

7. Academic Pursuits

Carlos Yulo values education and continued his studies while training in Japan. He graduated from Teikyo University in Tokyo with an associate degree in literature in 2022. His commitment to both academics and athletics is commendable.

8. Unique Training Approach

Carlos’s training includes a mix of strength conditioning, flexibility exercises, and practicing routines on various apparatus. His dedication to perfecting his craft is evident in his disciplined approach to training.

9. Role Model and Inspiration

Carlos Yulo has become a role model for aspiring gymnasts in the Philippines. His story of perseverance and hard work serves as an inspiration to many young athletes who dream of achieving greatness in sports.

10. Olympic Record Holder

Carlos Yulo, won 2 gold medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, focusing on events like the floor exercise, vault, and parallel bars. His determination and passion for gymnastics continue to drive him toward achieving his goals.

Carlos Yulo’s journey in gymnastics is a testament to his dedication, talent, and resilience. His achievements have not only elevated his status as a world-class gymnast but have also significantly impacted the landscape of Philippine sports.

Featured Image credit to instagram.com/c_edrielzxs/

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Say goodbye to the sweltering summer heat and hello to more frequent rains, thunderstorms, and potential typhoons. Let’s dive into what PAGASA says we can expect in the coming months.

Criteria for Declaring the Rainy Season Met

PAGASA announced that the conditions needed to declare the start of the rainy season have been satisfied. 

In recent days, the western parts of Luzon and the Visayas experienced significant rainfall from scattered showers, thunderstorms, Typhoon Aghon (Ewiniar), and the southwest monsoon or habagat. 

The volume of rain and prevailing winds from the southwest were enough for PAGASA to make it official – the rainy season is here.

La Niña Likely to Develop, Increasing Rainfall

Compounding the onset of the rainy season, PAGASA also warned there is a high probability that a La Niña pattern will emerge during the July to September period this year. La Niña is characterized by cooler than normal ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific.

For the Philippines, La Niña often leads to above-average rainfall, especially in the latter part of the year. PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando advised the public and government agencies “to take precautionary measures against the adverse impacts of the rainy season, habagat, and the impending La Niña such as floods and rain-induced landslides.”

More Tropical Cyclones Expected

Due to the anticipated development of La Niña, PAGASA projects the Philippines will face more tropical cyclones in 2024 compared to last year. 

The weather bureau expects 13 to 16 cyclones to enter or develop within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) this year, up from just 11 storms in 2023 which was an El Niño year.

However, this is still slightly below the typical average of 19-20 storms the country sees annually. 

PAGASA’s climate monitoring chief Ana Liza Solis explained that there tend to be more cyclones during La Niña years because of warmer ocean temperatures, especially in the western Pacific near the Philippines.

Shorter Lead Times for Storm Preparations

Science Secretary Renato Solidum pointed out that with the warm La Niña waters closer to the Philippines, tropical cyclones could potentially reach land faster after forming. “It means the lead time is shorter.

For cyclones closer to land, there is less time to prepare,” Solidum said.

This underscores the importance of staying alert and having emergency plans in place as storms can develop and intensify rapidly. From June to November, PAGASA predicts 10-13 tropical cyclones will enter or form inside the PAR.

Monsoon Breaks Will Still Occur

Although the rainy season has begun, it doesn’t mean non-stop rain every single day for the next several months. PAGASA notes that even during the rainy season, there will be “breaks in rainfall that extend over a few days or weeks,” which are referred to as monsoon breaks.

These monsoon breaks are periods of drier weather that can occur between the passages of rain-bearing weather systems. So while we should expect a generally wetter pattern in the coming months, some stretches of drier days will still be mixed in.

Preparing for the Rainy Season

With the rainy season’s arrival coinciding with a likely La Niña and the threat of an increased number of tropical cyclones, it’s wise for the public to prepare for the potential impacts. Some basic tips include:

• Ensuring your home is in good repair and able to withstand heavy rains and winds
• Having an emergency kit stocked with essentials like food, water, flashlights, batteries, etc.
• Identifying evacuation routes and safe locations in case flooding occurs
• Staying informed of the latest weather bulletins from PAGASA
• Avoiding flooded areas and not attempting to drive across inundated roads
• Securing loose objects outside that could be blown around by strong winds

By taking sensible precautions and heeding the advice of PAGASA and local authorities, we can minimize the risks posed by the hazards of the rainy season. Stay safe and dry out there!

The post The 2024 Philippine Rainy Season Begins: What to Expect According to PAGASA appeared first on HyperLocal PH.

The Arrival of Legazpi

Miguel López de Legazpi, an experienced Spanish explorer and conquistador, had embarked on his journey from New Spain (now Mexico) with the aim of extending Spain’s colonial reach into the Pacific. His arrival in the Philippines was part of Spain’s broader strategy to establish a foothold in Asia for trade and evangelization purposes.

The Meeting with Lakan Dula

Upon reaching Manila Bay, Legazpi’s expedition encountered the Kingdom of Tondo, ruled by Lakan Dula. This meeting was not merely a chance encounter but a significant diplomatic engagement that would shape the future of the islands. Lakan Dula, recognizing the military and technological superiority of the Spaniards, agreed to allow them to establish a settlement in the area.

This agreement was not just a matter of political convenience. It was also a strategic move by Lakan Dula to possibly leverage the Spaniards’ presence for his own kingdom’s advantage against local rivals and external threats. The willingness of Lakan Dula to engage with the Spaniards was a testament to his diplomatic acumen and his understanding of the changing dynamics in the region.

The Baptism and Conversion

A notable outcome of the meeting between Legazpi and Lakan Dula was the baptism of Lakan Dula and his sons into the Catholic faith. This event symbolized the beginning of the widespread Christianization of the Philippines, which would become one of the most enduring legacies of Spanish colonization. The conversion of the ruling elite was a strategic move by the Spaniards to facilitate the broader acceptance of Christianity among the indigenous population.

The Establishment of Manila

Following the agreement with Lakan Dula, Legazpi proceeded to establish a settlement in what is now Manila, laying the foundations for what would become the capital of the Spanish East Indies. This settlement served as the administrative and religious center of the Spanish colony, from which the Spaniards would expand their control over the archipelago.

The establishment of Manila also marked the beginning of significant cultural and social transformations in the Philippines. The introduction of Christianity, the Spanish language, and European customs and institutions would profoundly influence Filipino society, leaving a legacy that is still evident today.

Conclusion

The events of May 18, 1571, represent a watershed moment in Philippine history. The arrival of Miguel López de Legazpi and his subsequent engagement with Lakan Dula set the stage for over three centuries of Spanish rule in the Philippines. This period of colonization would have a profound impact on the country’s cultural, social, and political landscape, shaping the identity of the Filipino people and the nation’s trajectory for centuries to come.

Sources:

https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/the-colonial-history-of-the-philippines
https://www.britannica.com/place/Philippines/The-Spanish-period
https://sites.google.com/site/truelakandula/chapter-25-lakan-dula-of-tondo-and-his-prince-batang-dula
http://www.mcrg.ac.in/Chair_Professor/Articles/Spanish_colonialism_in_The_Philippines.pdf
https://www.scribd.com/doc/101182642/Timeline-of-Spanish-Colonization-of-the-Philippines

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