But more than the issue of “recalling” presidential guards, Cory mourners have consistently disparaged Arroyo’s leadership. For every outpouring of thanks and praises for Cory Aquino, there seemed to be a reciprocal criticism for Arroyo.
“That seems to be the general atmosphere,” said Luisa Magpayo, one of the ushers from the church during Cory’s wake at the Manila Cathedral. She wished that people would just pray for those who are being condemned. “Pray for your enemies,” she prayed.
“Cory didn’t lie, didn’t cling to power. She treated people with respect and consideration. She was simple and humble. She had integrity. She didn’t steal,” were just some of the praises lavished on Cory. Its inverse, meanwhile, were explicitly or implicitly heaped on Arroyo.
“Not even half of this crowd will likely brave the rain to mourn the present president (when her time comes),” said Adriano Lotoc, 44, a crane operator who went to the Manila Cathedral with relatives, including a five-year old daughter on his shoulder. He attributed the blockbuster turnout to Cory’s religiosity. “She was God-fearing.”
Princess, Tintin, Jhomee, Kevin and Ven, teenage dorm-mates studying at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Mapua, Lyceum and Colegio de San Juan de Letran, told Bulatlat they went to the funeral because Cory had done a lot of good things for the country.
“We got carried away by this,” they explained, gesturing toward the crowded, confetti-littered patio of the cathedral. One of them chirped though that Piolo Pascual singing at the mass had also exerted a strong pull. As for Arroyo, they doubted she could get the same funeral honors when her time comes. “We hear mostly negative things about her from our parents.”
Laban Signs Again
Along with reliving the proud moments of Edsa came the flashing of the L sign. For Cory and the people, said activist Tonyo Cruz, it still means “Laban (Fight).” But for Arroyo, it means “Loser.” To which other marching activists added: It could also mean “Liar,” or hopefully, “Layas (Go away).”
“Ipaglaban ang Edsa, tapusin si Gloria! (Fight for Edsa, Finish off Gloria!),” screamed a neatly written yellow streamer along the way of Cory’s cortege.
“When Cory’s term ended, she did not seek to extend her stay in Malacanang,” said Consolacion Paje, 53, a housewife from Payatas, Quezon City. “That’s what makes her different from Gloria,” Paje said. “Cory was honest, she had integrity,” she added. “She helped people without having to do it in front of the camera, unlike Gloria.”
