Catholic schools to teach ‘Cory history’

To honor the contributions of former President Corazon Aquino to Philippine democracy, Catholic schools in the country will include "Cory history" in their curriculum.

The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) asked teachers to emphasize Mrs. Aquino’s significant role in restoring the country’s democracy.

"We call on our member schools to make our students understand and value the pivotal role of President Cory in the history of this county," CEAP said in a statement, excerpts of which were posted on the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Web site.

Mrs. Aquino helped restore democracy after being catapulted to the presidency following the civilian-backed military uprising in February 1986.

She has been confined at the Makati Medical Center for over a month. In March 2008, Mrs. Aquino was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

On Wednesday, the Aquino family said the former Philippine leader's condition had stabilized.

2010 elections

CEAP said Mrs. Aquino's role in restoring democracy becomes even more important at this time, as the nation prepares for the 2010 presidential elections.

"The true meaning of EDSA (1986) people power uprising should not be lost on all of us as we prepare for a crucial transition in the life of our country — the elections in May 2010," it said.

Also, CEAP called on its 1,194 member schools to offer prayer and Masses for the full recovery of the ailing global democracy icon.

It asked its members to tie yellow ribbons, wear yellow bands and shirts, and hang streamers as a show of support for Mrs. Aquino.

"As we kneel in prayer for President Cory, as she knelt in prayer for our country, let us keep in passionate remembrance the persevering and unwavering light of hope embodied through her," it said.

"We ask all our member schools to offer daily prayers and Masses, to sacrifice and to continue to storm heaven with prayers for perseverance for Cory and our country until the peace of the Lord and the light of truth reign over us again," it added.

At the same time, CEAP also issued a short prayer for Mrs. Aquino and the country.

"Lord, grant President Cory peace and grace that she may overcome her illness. We pray for strength for the people of our nation as we look up to the model of strong faith and persevering spirit of true stewardship, our dear President Cory. Bless our leaders and grant them discernment to banish their selfish interests and do what is truly good for the country. Amen." - GMANews.TV