20 August 2010.  In commemoration of a very special day in Philippine history, the Philippine Consulate General spearheaded the first festive celebration of Ninoy Aquino Day in Honolulu in a  Reception to celebrate the life and times of  Senator Benigno Aquino Jr.

Organized and co-hosted by Hawaii’s Filipino Community, the Reception was attended by Filipino Community leaders,  Filipino-American veterans of World War II, m embers of the Consular Corps, Filipino Chamber of Commerce, the Philippine Caucus at the State House and Senate and Hawaii government officials, led by Hawaii State Governor, Hon. Linda Lingle.

Senior US Senator and President Pro-Tempore, Senator Daniel Inouye delivered the Keynote Speech.  He spoke of Ninoy as a Filipino hero who is much regarded for his courage and determination to serve the Filipino people. He also spoke of the U.S.’ “meager” compensation that the US government awarded to Filipino-American veterans of World War II of whose rights he staunchly advocates in the US Congress.

Hawaii State Senate and House of Representatives presented Certificates in celebration of the Ninoy Aquino Day.

The Philippine Chorale and Filipino singers in Hawaii, Jasmin Butay, Arnold Pontillas and Amado Cacho sang the national anthems of the United States, the State of Hawaii and the Philippines.  Deputy Consul General Paul Cortes and Jasmin Butay gave a beautiful rendition of “Ang Bayan”  while the Philippine Chorale sang “Matudnila.”

The Ninoy Aquino Day was attended by some 300 guests  who were also privileged to watch a pictorial tribute to Ninoy in a short film made by Mr. Paul Cortes that honors the life and heroism of Ninoy Aquino.