AJHS' first-of-its-kind commemoration of Ninoy Aquino Day

The Ateneo de Manila Junior High School commemorated the 41st Anniversary of Sen Benigno “Ninoy” S. Aquino Jr.’s martyrdom with a simple program held during recess period on 21 August 2024. Organized by the Christian Service & Involvement Program (CSIP) office, the activity started with the Blue Babble Battalion banging its drums from two points on the AJHS Edsa Walk, beginning a noise barrage. This was followed by the appearance of performers who portrayed Aquino and his guards reenacting the time he was escorted from the plane to his death on the tarmac that fateful day in 1983. Faculty, staff, administrators, and students - many of whom were dressed in yellow and black- gathered on both sides of the Edsa walk, chanting “Ninoy” and “Laban” as the PA system blared audio and songs forever associated with Aquino’s death and the subsequent People Power Revolution of 1986. The community was then led by a troop of AJHS Scouts bearing the Philippine flag from the Edsa walk to Delaney Plaza, where a prayer for peace and national reconciliation closed the program.

The commemoration of Aquino’s assassination was a first for AJHS, which normally marks the event a day or two after 21 August. With the Ninoy Aquino holiday being moved to 23 August by Malacañang this year, the AJHS was able to observe the historic event on the exact date.

By honoring Ninoy's legacy, we allow his courage to fuel our resolve to always fight for freedom and justice, to stand for what is right no matter the cost, and to be the change our nation needs.