OFFICIALS called on Filipinos to preserve the gains and spirit of the Edsa people power revolution, as its 34th anniversary was celebrated on Tuesday through a short and simple program at the Edsa Shrine with a mere 1,000 people in attendance, mostly from the government.
“This historic event we are remembering today symbolizes the Filipino people’s resolve to stand up and come together in the name of freedom and democracy. Three decades hence, may the victories of the People Power Revolution continue to inspire us to unite for peace and inclusive progress now and in the future,” said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
“I enjoin every member of the One Defense Team to pursue excellence and remain committed to our sworn duty to protect our country and people. Let us cherish and be true to the trust bestowed upon us by our countrymen. May we continue to be instruments in upholding the sacred ideals that our founding fathers and heroes hold dear,” he added.
He was referring to the four-day bloodless regime change that captivated the world as millions of Filipinos massed on the grounds between two military camps, Aguinaldo and Crame, to provide a human shield to rebel soldiers protesting against the Marcos dictatorship.
For her part, Vice President Leni Robredo said the 1986 revolution should serve as a warning to anyone who will attempt to clamp Filipinos under an iron-fisted rule.
“They will not succeed,” she said, noting that there are people who are working to erase the memory of the People Power Revolution for their own personal agenda.
National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Debold Sinas said the simple commemoration of the revolution went well and peacefully, and was over after more than 12 minutes.
“We are very happy that the program was finished peacefully and orderly. As you can see, no one has conducted a rally, demonstration on our Freedom Park. There are only about 1,000 participants for the program, all government employees,” he said.
“There are no other stakeholders this morning or nongovernment organizations, and the flag raising and wreath laying went all smoothly and the program lasted for 12 minutes,” he added.