Pinoys in US pray for peaceful resolution of Spratlys conflict

Filipinos in the United States marked the 28th death anniversary of former Sen. Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. with a prayer forum seeking a peaceful resolution to the Spratly conflict. The Prayer Forum for Peace in the Spratlys was held Sunday at the National Philippine Multicultural Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland, the Philippine Embassy in Washington said. "The prayer forum was organized by the U.S. Pinoys for Good Governance in support of a peaceful and just resolution of issues in the Spratlys conflict. The date was also chosen to commemorate the 28th death anniversary of former Senator Benigno 'Ninoy' S. Aquino," the embassy said in a news release on its website Wednesday. The organizers said the prayer forum involved the participation of 171 sites all over the world, the embassy said. Philippine Ambassador Jose Cuisia Jr. delivered a presentation on the Philippine government’s position on the West Philippine Sea issue. Cuisia also delivered the keynote address at the forum, the Embassy added. "In his remarks, Ambassador Cuisia acknowledged the efforts of community leaders for 'mobilizing behind the causes that impact our country and our people.' He added that by choosing the way of peace, we are honoring the memory and legacy of Ninoy Aquino," the Embassy said. The Philippines and China, along with four other claimants, remain locked in a conflict over the Spratly Islands, which are believed to be rich in resources. Meanwhile, the program also paid tribute to the late Senator Aquino, who was gunned down on Aug. 21, 1983. Aquino's son is incumbent President Benigno Aquino III. The elder Aquino's death triggered a series of protests that eventually led to the EDSA-1 revolt that ousted then President Ferdinand Marcos and installed his widow Corazon in Malacañang. - GMA News