Yagami Website

MANILA - Friends and supporters of Cory Aquino on Saturday held an inter-faith service for the former president at Ayala Avenue, which used to be one refuge of Mrs. Aquino whenever she wanted to send a message to the people.

They made their way towards the Ninoy Aquino monument at the corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue where they lit candles.

Ayala Avenue was where the very first showering of confettis took place when Mrs. Aquino ran for president, which is why they chose to gather there.

Members of the civil society groups, business community, Cabinet secretaries of the former president and even ordinary people joined the service.

But more than a moment of grief, the gathering was a celebration of the life of former President Cory and her contributions to mankind.

Many of them became emotional while listening to each and everyone's message, and to hymns of farewell, gratitude and love.

They said that even up to death, the former president left a message to the people.

Former presidential adviser on the peace process Teresita 'Ging' Deles urged the people to continue to "stand up and continue fighting for democracy...This is her message for us."

Leah Navarro, a coordinator of the civic group, Black and White Movement, said the passing away of Mrs. Aquino " is a great loss, but fortunately, she's now our angel."

Attendees recited many prayers for Mrs. Aquino. They played an audio visual presentation of Cory and her life as a parent, a wife, the country's leader who was admired by many, and most of all, as a faithful Catholic.

At the end of the program, everyone went to the stage, lit candles and together sang the song that made its remark during the 1986 "people power" revolution and brought Cory to power--"Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo."

They said this is how they want it--for President Cory to remain alive in our hearts.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the Former Senior Government Officials (FSGO), composed of nearly 100 former officials advocating reforms and good governance, said Mrs. Aquino left a "legacy of honesty" for future leaders to emulate.

"We are one with the Filipino people, of all faiths and persuasions, in mourning the death of our President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. We condole with her family, and share their grief with the rest of the nation, at the passing from her life into eternity, consoled by the knowledge that she will continue to intercede in Heaven for our country and people," the FSGO said.

"She leaves a legacy of honesty, purity of heart, faith, and love for the nation, for future elected leaders of this country to emulate. As former senior government officials, aware of the difficulties of governing, and the temptations of power which beset the Presidency, we pay homage to and express our admiration for President Cory, mother of our nation," the FSGO said.

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