Artists, Celebs and Influencers Feel Inspired and Nostalgic at  the Re-opened Aquino Center in Tarlac

Senator and independent candidate Bam Aquino led a group of online influencers, musicians, and celebrities on a guided tour of the newly-reopened Aquino Center and Museum in Tarlac City, Tarlac, connecting them to the rich history and love story of the Aquino family with the nation. The museum recently reopened after a two-year renovation. Bam arranged the visit as part of the commemoration of the EDSA People Power 39th anniversary to inform and inspire the younger generation by sharing the vital role that his uncle, former Senator Ninoy Aquino, and his aunt, former President Cory Aquino, played in restoring freedom and democracy in the country.  

The museum, which underwent a two-year renovation, also has a wing dedicated to late former President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III and an expanded exhibit area for Cory’s post-presidency years. 

“Bilang nakababatang pinsan ni dating Pangulong Benigno Simeon ‘Noynoy’ Aquino III, at pamangkin nina Ninoy at Cory, minarapat kong ipagpatuloy ang kuwento ng sakripisyong ginawa nila para sa bayan, lalo na para sa TikTok generation,” said Bam. “Mahalagang malaman ng kasalukuyang henerasyon ang isang katotohanan ng ating kasaysayan—walang kayang humadlang sa isang nagkaisang sambayanan,” he added.Through the help of these online influencers and artists, Bam expressed hope that the spirit and lessons of EDSA can be passed on to future generations, keeping its memory alive and inspiring more Filipinos to value freedom and democracy. 

Among those who joined the guided tour were Andrei Hermida, Enzo Bonoan, Adrian Araneta, Lexi Mercader, Andrea Guevarra, Zion Licup, Lean Ansing, Jose Siscar, Marion Redoblado, Julia Pineda, Justin Dizon, Joey Concepcion, Patty Bau, Rose, JP Reyes, Zion Aguirre, Niño San Juan, Renz Saavedra, Saerick Macasaquit, Tayn Castillo, Pinky Amador, Viktoria Agbayani, Chef Gelo Guison, Chef Jeng Flores, Ferdi Flores, Joan, Dei, Bayang Barrios, Morobeats, DJ Med, Malik, Jmara, TJ, Dizzy D, Tofu, Naus, and Prophecee.“For us na super sanggol pa and walang memory ng Martial Law at People Power, this is the closest that we can get to being ‘present’ during this pivotal part of our history,” Chef Guison said. 

“Nakapagbisita kami sa Aquino Center and Museum sa Tarlac at sobrang sakto lang na today is the People Power Anniversary. Not only did we see the newly added exhibits featuring both Cory and PNoy, we gained a deeper appreciation for our country’s history. It reminded me of how we sometimes take our freedom today for granted which is why it is so important to look back on history and protect what our heroes gave up their lives for,” said Enzo Bonoan. 

Pinky Amador, for her part, said “Nakakapangilabot yung makita ko yung actual na damit ni Ninoy Aquino when he was assassinated. Also the markings on the wall of his cell wherein he would count the days of his incarceration (which was seven years and seven months) A lot of his and Cory’s and PNoy’s personal effects, memorabilia, letters and awards made them seem so much more human, although I have met the two past presidents, and was there at UST for the funeral of Ninoy and EDSA revolution in the streets, noise barrages, etc,” she added.

“Also of note was the letter of Ninoy to Pnoy stating he would not defend himself in the military court accusing him of trumped up charges of sedition. Being someone who experienced Martial Law and the EDSA revolution, the Aquino Center really brings forth INSPIRATION and the courage to do what is good and honest for the nation,” the noted actress further said.

“Today, I had the privilege of visiting the Aquino Center and Museum in Tarlac to commemorate the anniversary of the People Power movement. This powerful experience reminded me of the true meaning of courage and unity in the face of adversity. A heartfelt thank you to Senator Bam Aquino for the invitation and for honoring the legacy of those who fought for freedom and democracy! Let us continue to draw inspiration from their bravery,” Chef Jeng Flores said.”I’ve never felt more empowered as a Filipino. Everything inside the museum stood as a testament to how three individuals became instruments of hope and courage, uniting people to fight for freedom and democracy. What I once considered a mere history lesson from my teacher transformed into a life lesson,” Chef Flores concluded.