Obama Statement on the Filipino People Power Day and the Filipino
Veterans Equity Act

Chicago, IL -- Twenty-two years after the People Power Revolution in
the Philippines , we remember and commemorate the Filipino people who
used the democratic, non-violent method of "people power" to
overthrow the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos and end the martial
law regime that ruled the Philippines for fourteen years.

On this anniversary, I urge my colleagues in Congress to honor the
Filipino veterans who bravely fought with American troops in World
War II. Approximately 250,000 Filipino troops joined American forces
to fight in World War II, but too many of these heroes are still
being denied benefits. The time has come for Congress to honor the
Filipino veterans of World War II by finally enacting the Filipino
Veterans Equity Act of 2007. I applaud Chairman Akaka's leadership on
this issue and will continue to urge my colleagues to provide the
benefits and recognition these veterans deserve.

Today, let us join Filipinos in America to honor the sacrifices and
determination of the Filipino people in the tireless fight for
democracy and freedom.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2008
Obama Press Office, 312-819-2423

Tags: Obama, Filipino People, Filipino Veterans, Filipino Veterans Equity