Historical Events tagged with "manila"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

Chemical Fire Reveals Project Bojinka Plans

January 6th, 1995 30 years ago

A chemical fire at an apartment complex in Manila led to a significant discovery of plans for Project Bojinka, an extensive terrorist plot to target multiple locations in the United States and the Philippines. Authorities stumbled upon detailed schematics and operations that connected the apartment to a larger network of terrorists. The incident raised alarms about international terrorist activities and highlighted the dangers of homegrown terrorism, shifting police and security focuses in the region and abroad.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Explosion on Philippine Airlines Flight 434

December 11th, 1994 30 years ago

Philippine Airlines Flight 434 was en route from Manila to Tokyo when a bomb exploded on board, resulting in the death of one passenger but allowing the aircraft to land safely at the airport. This incident highlighted vulnerabilities in airline security at the time and raised concerns regarding domestic terrorism.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Philippine Forces Clash with Demonstrators

January 22nd, 1987 38 years ago

At Malacañang Palace in Manila, Philippine security forces opened fire on a large crowd of demonstrators estimated between 10,000 to 15,000. The protest was largely driven by demands for political reform and social justice. The violent response resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals. This incident highlighted increasing tensions in the country following years of dictatorship and social unrest, as citizens gathered to voice their grievances against the government.

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Politics & Government

Marcos Flees, Aquino Becomes First Female President

February 25th, 1986 39 years ago

Ferdinand Marcos, the long-time president of the Philippines, fled the country under the pressure of a popular uprising known as the People Power Revolution. Corazon Aquino, the leader of the opposition and widow of assassinated senator Benigno Aquino Jr., was declared the first female president of the Philippines, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape. The revolution was largely peaceful and took place in February 1986, culminating in an outpouring of public support for Aquino and widespread rejection of Marcos's regime.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Beginning of the People Power Revolution

February 22nd, 1986 39 years ago

In February, Filipinos gathered on Edsa, a major thoroughfare in Metro Manila, to demonstrate against the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. The peaceful protests, calling for democracy and justice, drew millions of participants, including opposition leaders such as Corazon Aquino. The movement aimed to restore democratic governance after years of martial law and widespread corruption. The vibrant atmosphere was marked by colorful banners, chants for freedom, and a sense of unity among diverse groups of citizens.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.

August 21st, 1983 41 years ago

Benigno Aquino Jr., a prominent Philippine opposition leader, was assassinated at the Manila International Airport, now named Ninoy Aquino International Airport in his honor. His return from exile was met with tragic violence, leading to widespread political unrest and demands for accountability in the Philippines. The assassination ignited a significant movement against the then-ruling regime of Ferdinand Marcos, ultimately altering the course of Philippine history.

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Politics & Government

Ferdinand Marcos Lifts Martial Law in the Philippines

January 17th, 1981 44 years ago

Ferdinand Marcos officially lifted martial law, restoring civil liberties in the Philippines after over eight years of authoritarian rule. The announcement came amidst a climate of political repression and social inequality. Marcos justified the action by citing improved stability and the need for national progress, though critics viewed it as a tactical move to consolidate power. The lifting of martial law was celebrated by many but was also met with skepticism from opposition groups, which feared continued political manipulation.

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Sports & Recreation

Muhammad Ali claims victory over Joe Frazier

October 1st, 1975 49 years ago

Muhammad Ali faced Joe Frazier in a grueling boxing match in Manila. Known as the 'Thrilla in Manila,' this bout was the third and final meeting between the two legendary heavyweights, both vying for dominance in the boxing world. The fight was marked by its intense heat and back-and-forth action, ultimately leading to Frazier's corner halting the match after the 14th round, allowing Ali to retain his heavyweight title.

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Politics & Government

Bombing at Plaza Miranda Rally Injures Candidates

August 21st, 1971 53 years ago

A bomb exploded during a Liberal Party rally in Plaza Miranda, injuring several anti-Marcos candidates. The rally was meant to galvanize support against the regime of President Ferdinand Marcos. Eyewitnesses reported chaos as the explosion occurred, with immediate repercussions on the political landscape. This incident marked a critical point in Philippine politics as it highlighted the increasing tensions between the Marcos administration and opposition groups.

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