Editorial: EDSA People Power 28th Anniversary

The nation celebrates the 28th Anniversary f the historic EDSA People Power on February 25, 2014, with the theme “Kapit-Bisig Tungo Sa Pagbangon,” a call to action for all Filipinos to join hands in assisting their country and fellow Filipinos in the rehabilitation efforts from the challenges of the previous year.

Proclamation No. 655 declared February 25, 2014, a nationwide observance and a school holiday to commemorate the culmination of the glorious four days (February 22-25, 1986) in Philippine history when the Filipino people bravely pursued a common cause, that resulted in ushering political and socio-economic reforms. Focal point of celebration is Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), where the historic event transpired. It is here where the EDSA monument and Lady of Peace shrine are found – fitting testimonies to the Filipinos’ indomitable spirit.

The EDSA People Power Commission leads activities that include a film festival, concert, photo exhibit, and interviews with key EDSA personalities. A “Salubungan” workshop was held on January 16-18, 2014, with groups from various parts of the country coming together and celebrating the Filipino spirit of volunteerism and love of country. The “Salubungan,” reenacted each year as part of the celebration, was the transfer of holed-out soldiers in Camp Aguinaldo to join fellow soldiers in nearby Camp Crame to consolidate their forces on second day of EDSA 1, a move witnessed by thousands of people converged at EDSA to protect the troops.

The “heroes of EDSA,” participants in those historic four days, and countless other Filipinos who shared their time, joined rallies, distributed food and drinks to rallyists, recited the rosary, offered flowers, and wooed government soldiers to their side, are remembered today in celebrations nationwide.

The Manila Bulletin, led by its Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Emilio T. Yap, President and Publisher Atty. Hermogenes P. Pobre, Executive Vice President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cris J. Icban Jr., Business Editor Loreto D. Cabañes, Directors, Officers, and Employees congratulate the EDSA People Power Commission headed by its Chairman Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., and Vice Chairman Jose T. Pardo, its Commissioners and other Officers, for helping keep alive among the people the spirit and historical significance of the EDSA People Power of the Filipino people in our Republic of the Philippines. CONGRATULATIONS, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY AND MABUHAY!