MANILA (UPDATED) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday urged Filipinos to transcend political barriers as the Philippines commemorated the 40th anniversary of the death of the late Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr.

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Aquino was assassinated upon arrival in Manila from the United States where he was on exile for three years, on Aug. 21, 1983. At that time, he was the face of the political opposition as he challenged the authoritarian rule of then President Ferdinand Marcos, Sr.

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In a statement, Marcos - son of the late president - encouraged Filipinos to set aside political differences and unite for the country’s welfare and progress.

“I stand united with all Filipinos worldwide in commemorating the Ninoy Aquino Day. By standing for his beliefs and fighting for battles he deemed right, he became an example of being relentless and resolute for many Filipinos,” Marcos said in his message.

“In our purposive quest for a more united and prosperous Philippines, let us transcend political barriers that hamper us from securing the comprehensive welfare and advancement of our beloved people,” he added.

The President referred to love for the nation as the compass that would help the country foster a harmonious environment.

“Let us allow this compelling force to promote collaboration, celebrate diversity, and create a society that is teeming with vitality and inspiration,” he said.

The President urged Filipinos to draw inspiration from the indomitable spirit of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.

“As we take measured yet realistic strides towards progress, let us allow our steadfast spirit to drive us to uplift every Filipino and build an inclusive and more progressive Philippines,” he said.

REACTIONS

But Bayan President Renato Reyes slammed Marcos' statement, which he said failed to mention that Aquino's death "became a symbol of the brutality of the Marcos fascist dictatorship."

"It is easy to cite 'political barriers' as the cause of our underdevelopment and lack of genuine progress. Thus, transcending these 'political barriers' seems to be the logical course. However, history has taught us that it is the insatiable drive for power, unbridled corruption and subservience to foreign dictates, not political differences, which have been the stumbling blocks to development," Reyes said in a separate statement.

"Any call for unity must be grounded on an honest assessment of history and on a real sense of justice for those aggrieved. The dangerous mindset that resulted in Ninoy Aquino’s martyrdom remains present today with the continuing persecution of dissenters and critics, who are now labelled as 'terrorists' for simply speaking out," he added.

In accordance with Republic Act No. 9256, the 21st day of August each year is declared as the Ninoy Aquino Day.

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