People Power Anniversary is a nationwide observance and school holiday in the Philippines each year. This event holds a special place in the hearts of many Filipinos as they remember a revolution that restored democracy in the Philippines in 1986.
What do people do?
Many people celebrate People Power Anniversary by wearing yellow, which was the official color of the LABAN party, the rival political group that challenged the government back in 1986. Much of the festivities and activities occur in the city of Manila, particularly Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), a major public road where people flock to visit. Activities include programs such as church masses and concerts.
Many people also flash the LABAN (fight) sign, which is an “L” sign using one’s index finger and thumb. Media stations broadcast programs about the event through a live feed of street celebrations, documentaries about the revolution, and interviews with prominent political figures and personalities. The print media publish news and feature articles on stories related to this event.
Background
The story behind People Power Anniversary traces back to events that occurred from February 22 to 25, 1986. Masses of disillusioned people, mainly from urban Manila, staged a revolution on the streets of Manila. This revolution eventually led to the downfall of a government that many people saw as corrupt and oppressive.
A major road called EDSA, in Manila, was the stage for crucial events that occurred during the revolution. Nearly two million people were protesting on this street at one point during this historical event. Many Filipinos consider the holiday as historic and important because the revolution changed and reformed the political system in the Philippines.
Symbols
Yellow symbolizes the revolution and also is the official color of the LABAN (fight) political party. The “L” sign which is formed by one’s index finger and thumb is another symbol of the LABAN party and the people’s defiance of the authoritarian government at the time of the revolution.
This year’s celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the EDSA 1 People Power revolution is marked by commemorative events happening in various areas of Metro Manila.
These events include 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 and the Freedom Tour. The celebration will culminate with the Flag Raising Ceremony and breakfast at the People Power Monument along EDSA, where the main celebration is scheduled tomorrow.
A Memorandum Circular No. 13, was signed by the Palace to enjoined government employees and officials to take part in these commemorative activities, and to display People Power-themed decor including yellow buntings, stickers and tarpaulins.
Police personnel are deployed to various areas in Metro Manila where these activities are being held. Additional security will be put in place particularly near the People Power Monument along EDSA, where the main celebration is scheduled tomorrow.
