Benigno Aquino Jr. had been a key figure in the opposition to the Ferdinand Marcos regime in the Philippines. After more than three years of self-imposed exile in the United States, Aquino returned to the Philippines on August 21, 1983. Upon his arrival at Manila International Airport, he was shot and killed shortly after disembarking from the plane. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as Aquino was attacked, and the incident shocked the nation. His assassination sparked immediate outrage among his supporters and within the broader public, leading to protests and calls for justice against those responsible for his death.

The manner of Aquino's assassination, involving alleged collusion among military and government officials, fueled suspicions of a larger conspiracy to silence opposition to Marcos. The political fallout was significant as it galvanized opposition groups and ordinary citizens alike, leading to widespread demonstrations and campaigns for democratic reforms. The incident became a rallying cry against the Marcos administration, and the legacy of Aquino would later be instrumental in mobilizing efforts for a regime change in the Philippines.

Aquino's assassination is often seen as a pivotal moment in Philippine history, marking the beginning of a series of events known as the People Power Revolution. This popular uprising eventually led to the ousting of Ferdinand Marcos and the restoration of democracy in the country in 1986. The emotional response to Aquino's murder echoed across the globe, symbolizing the struggles against dictatorship and human rights violations.