Meaning: The quote by Corazon Aquino succinctly captures the essence of the delicate balance between reconciliation, peace, and justice. Corazon Aquino, a prominent figure in Philippine history, served as the 11th President of the Philippines and was known for her role in the People Power Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the authoritarian regime of Ferdinand Marcos. As a leader who experienced the tumultuous political landscape of her country, Aquino's words carry significant weight and insight into the complexities of post-conflict societies.

In her quote, Aquino emphasizes the vital connection between reconciliation and justice, asserting that for reconciliation to be enduring, it must be underpinned by justice. This notion is particularly relevant in the context of transitional justice, where societies seek to address the legacies of past human rights abuses and conflict. Reconciliation, in this sense, involves not just the cessation of hostilities but also the acknowledgment of past wrongs and the establishment of mechanisms to address them.

The idea that "peace shouldn't be peace at any cost but peace based on principle, on justice" underscores the inherent ethical dimension of peacebuilding. It challenges the notion that peace can be achieved through mere silence or suppression of grievances. Instead, it advocates for a peace that upholds fundamental principles of fairness, accountability, and respect for human rights. This aligns with the broader discourse on just peace, which emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes of conflict and promoting inclusive and sustainable peace processes.

Furthermore, Aquino's quote reflects the recognition that sustainable peace cannot be divorced from the pursuit of justice. In many post-conflict societies, the grievances of victims and marginalized communities must be addressed in order to build a foundation for lasting peace. Transitional justice mechanisms such as truth commissions, reparations programs, and prosecutions for human rights violations are designed to serve this purpose, aiming to both uncover the truth about past abuses and provide redress for victims.

The experience of the Philippines during Aquino's presidency and beyond illustrates the challenges and complexities of pursuing reconciliation and justice in the aftermath of conflict. The country's history is marked by periods of political upheaval, human rights abuses, and social divisions. Aquino's leadership during a critical juncture in Philippine history, and her commitment to democratic principles and human rights, underscores the importance of her message about the inseparable link between reconciliation and justice.

In conclusion, Corazon Aquino's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic relationship between reconciliation, peace, and justice. It speaks to the moral imperative of pursuing peace that is grounded in principles of fairness and accountability. Moreover, it highlights the enduring significance of these ideals in the context of post-conflict societies, where the pursuit of reconciliation must be accompanied by meaningful efforts to address historical injustices and promote a more just and equitable future.