PNoy’s Legacy Honored: Good Governance and West Philippine Sea Victory Highlighted on 4th Death Anniversary

MANILA, Philippines — On the fourth anniversary of former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s passing, Filipinos gathered to honor his enduring legacy—most notably his administration’s historic defense of the country’s territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea and his unwavering commitment to good governance.

Held at the Ateneo de Manila University on June 24, 2025, the inaugural “President Benigno Simeon Aquino III Memorial Lecture on Leadership and Democracy” featured former Justice Secretary and now party-list Representative-elect Leila de Lima. She emphasized Aquino’s bold decision to bring China to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2013—an unprecedented move that led to the Philippines’ landmark legal victory in 2016. “He chose principle over fear,” De Lima said, lauding Aquino’s leadership as a “modern David versus Goliath” act.

The lecture also highlighted Aquino’s legacy of clean governance, encapsulated by his famous line, “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Francis Joseph Aquino Dee, executive director of the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation and Aquino’s nephew, said this message continues to guide many in public service.

A memorial Mass was also held earlier in the day at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, where family, friends, and former Cabinet members paid tribute to the late president. Alongside the lecture, a commemorative book titled PNoy: Filipino was officially launched, chronicling Aquino’s journey from reluctant leader to a symbol of democratic reform and sovereignty.

Aquino passed away on June 24, 2021, due to renal disease secondary to diabetes. Four years on, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of Filipinos who seek principled leadership and respect for national dignity.