New York Fil-Ams pay tribute to Ninoy, Cory

Filipino-Americans based in New York paid tribute to the late former President Corazon Aquino as they marked the 26th death anniversary of her husband, the late Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr., last Aug. 21. Members of the Filipino-American community gathered at the Benigno Aquino Triangle in Queens, New York for wreath-laying and flag-raising ceremonies last Aug. 23, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. "To honor Ninoy Aquino and the late President Corazon Aquino, young Fil-Am members of FAHSI rendered special performances which include an original song composition entitled 'Yellow Bells' for President Aquino that was played and (sung) by Fil-Am Dylan Schroth, and 'Bayan Ko' by Edmerald Gan and later joined in by the audience," the DFA said, citing a report from Philippine officials in New York. "Guests came in yellow while Cory-pins and yellow ribbons were distributed. The program was printed on yellow paper," it added. A poem read by Bonnibel Fonbuena entitled “Passion" was also dedicated to Mrs. Aquino, while Adelina Vivas played “Pilipinas kong Mahal" on the accordion. There was also a running silent video on EDSA I that catapulted Mrs. Aquino to power in 1986, and a video showing of the funeral of Mrs. Aquino last Aug. 5. Leading the organizers were Filipino American Human Services, Inc.(FAHSI), the Benigno Aquino Triangle Foundation, and the Philippine Consulate General. A reception for the guests was then held at the nearby Philippine American Center offices of FAHSI. Dr. Connie Quiambao, chairwoman of the Benigno Aquino Triangle Foundation, extolled the virtues and legacy of President Aquino in the transition of the Philippines from dictatorship to democracy. Quiambao, a good friend of Mrs. Aquino, had attended the necrological services and funeral rites in Manila. Deputy Consul General Melita Sta. Maria-Thomeczek noted the heroism of Ninoy Aquino and the EDSA I experience as very important milestones in the history of the country. A prayer to close the program was led by Rev. Eduardo Trubanos, D.D. The memorial was a well-attended event with many of the guests wearing yellow color. Over-all coordinator for the program was FAHSI member and Fil-Am youth Bonnibel Fonbuena. - GMANews.TV