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MANILA, Philippines – The commemoration of the 1986 People Power Revolution will no longer be held at the highway where the historic revolt took place.
Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said that the EDSA People Power Commission decided to hold the commemoration of the 28th anniversary at the Malacañan Palace grounds, instead of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA).
Coloma said the Commission headed by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr made the move so as not to cause heavy traffic on EDSA, a primary thoroughfare.
The EDSA Revolution – which occurred from Feb. 22 to 25, 1986 – is annually commemorated on February 25.
“We will hold the flag-raising [ceremony] and the traditional salubungan between the citizens and soldiers here at the Palace. President Aquino will also hold for a forum, and exchange views with our citizens from various sectors,” Coloma said on radio DZRB on Sunday, February 16.
The salubungan referred to the moment when ordinary citizens, priests and nuns armed with flowers and rosaries converged with soldiers on EDSA and convinced them to join the forces working for the ouster of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
This year’s celebration is themed, “Kapag-bisig para sa Pagbabangon.” (Holding hands for Recovery.)
“We are slowly moving the celebration away from the heroism of those who stood for freedom on EDSA in 1986 toward the efforts of Filipinos to help each other to alleviate the suffering caused by many decades of corruption and abuse by those in power,” Coloma said.
Coloma said the EDSA anniversary will focus on improving the lives of poor Filipinos.
“We honor the efforts of our countrymen who work to improve their lives, help one another, and have concern for each one in times of need,” he added.
The bloodless EDSA Revolution ended the 20-year iron-fisted rule of Marcos and restored democracy in the Philippines. It was hailed globally and inspired similar movements around the world.
The assassination of Marcos’ rival, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr in 1983, and massive cheating and violence in the 1986 snap elections sparked the revolt. The revolution installed into power Aquino’s widow, the late President Corazon Aquino. Their son, Benigno Aquino III, is now Philippine president. – Ayee Macaraig/Rappler.com
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