LP vows to strengthen democracy

NINOY AQUINO DAY Former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III delivers a brief message during a gathering of supporters on the 35th death anniversary of his father, Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., at Manila Memorial Park on Tuesday. LYN RILLON

On the 47th anniversary of the Plaza Miranda bombing, the Liberal Party (LP), whose leaders were decimated by the attack, vowed on Tuesday to strengthen democracy as another “gang of liars, plunderers and murderers” were trying to suppress freedom in the country.

The opposition party also promised to continue to fight moves to suppress democracy as some of its members gathered at Plaza Miranda in Manila to remember the attack.

“Today, 47 years hence, we, new Liberal Party members, vow to continue the fight,” the LP said in a statement.

“We, of the revitalized Liberal Party, promise to tirelessly work to renew and strengthen democracy, especially now when another gang of liars, plunderers and murderers brutally and shamelessly subvert the freedoms we won back in 1986,” it added.

Alongside its promises, the LP also paid respect to the heroes who fought against the impending dictatorship, which was formalized by the declaration of martial law by President Ferdinand Marcos a year after the bombing.

“Today, on this occasion, on this historic spot, hallowed by Liberal blood, we renew our commitment to do all these. We will build a party rooted among the people, a party that defends democracy and fights for freedom for every citizen of the Philippines,” the LP said.

On Aug. 21, 1971, while the LP was holding its “miting de avance” at Plaza Miranda, two grenades were thrown at the party’s candidates and supporters on the makeshift stage.

The bombing killed nine people and injured 90 others, including then Sen. Jovito Salonga.

In response, Marcos suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, blaming the Communist Party of the Philippines for the bombing, but most people suspected he was responsible.

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