Two Presidents

As Marcos' health continued to worsen, so did the state of the nation.

The Philippine economy plunged. By the end of 1983, the country was bankrupt and there was massive civil unrest. Majority of the nation - from the higher echelons of society to the impoverished - started to participate in opposition movements, which attracted global attention. Media focused on the political crisis, the first couple's "excessive" lifestyle, the infamous collection of thousands of shoes, and a questionable "extraordinary wealth".

Pressure forced Marcos to call for presidential snap elections. It was Ninoy's widow, Cory, who was chosen by the opposition as their presidential bet.

The elections were held on February 7, 1986, and were marred with reports of cheating and fraud. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) declared Marcos as the winner, but the National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) had a contradicting final tally. With no one conceding, both "winners" took their oath of office but Aquino undoubtedly had the nations' massive support.