On August 21 , 1983 , Marcos ' chief rival , opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. , was assassinated on the tarmac at Manila International Airport . Marcos eventually called snap presidential elections in 1986 . Marcos was proclaimed the winner , but the results were widely regarded as fraudulent . Cardinal Jaime Sin then roused the people to rebel , leading to the People Power Revolution , " the revolution that surprised the world " . Marcos and his allies fled to Hawaii and Aquino 's widow , the woman that inspired the armed men of the uprising , Corazon Aquino , was recognized as president
assassinated
Assassination of Benigno Aquino Jr.
Philippines