A nationwide observance and at the same time a yearly school holiday in the Philippines, the EDSA Revolution (also known as People Power Revolution) is being celebrated today, February 25. This event always has a special place in every Filipinos heart because the revolution signifies the restoration of the Philippine democracy way back 1986.
Background of the celebration
It was February 22 to 25, 1986 when the masses staged a revolution in Manila. Most of them were from the urban area who saw how corrupt the government was which led the Philippine into downfall. The major road of EDSA (Epifanio de los Santos Avenue) became the witness of the revolution. Almost 2 million people, headed by our former president Corazon Aquino, joined forces in fight for the country's democracy and that's the reason why it was also called People Power. Since then, Filipinos considered February 25 a special event for the country because the revolution reformed the system of the government in the Philippines.
Symbolism
Yellow became the symbol of the revolution as it was the official color of the LABAN Political Party that time. Until now, it is being used by the people during the celebration together with the "L" sign which is also a symbol used by the LABAN party.
The celebration of the EDSA Revolution's 25th Anniversary today will be highlighted by different celebrations in different significant places in Metro Manila. Those events are the following:
- Exhibit of the Revolution at SM North EDSA
- Exhibit of the Inauguration at Ayala Museum
- Book Launching of “Noynoy: Triumph of a People’s Campaign"
- Military Day-Inauguration of the AFP Museum and medical mission at Camp Aguinaldo
- Trade Fair in Taguig City
- Youth Day at Rizal High School and EDSA Babies Expo at La Salle Greenhills
- Faith Day-Unveiling of Cardinal Sin Statue and offering of flowers at the Ninoy and Cory statues
- Freedom Tour.
The celebration will be highlighted by the Flag Raising Ceremony and breakfast at the People Power Monument along EDSA, where the main celebration is scheduled tomorrow.
“Freedom of expression - in particular, freedom of the press - guarantees popular participation in the decisions and actions of government, and popular participation is the essence of our democracy.” --Corazon Aquino
To the revolution that brought the democracy back in the Philippines,
Happy 25th Anniversary EDSA REVOLUTION!
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