Police, military reenact historic ‘salubungan’ at Edsa

Some 2,000 police and military personnel marched on Epifanio delos Santos Avenue on Thursday to reenact the historic meeting of the Philippine Constabulary and Armed Forces of the Philippines leading to the People Power revolution in 1986.

With their arms linked, the troops–led by star-rank officials–marched from Edsa Santolan to the People Power Monument where the group met with former President Fidel V. Ramos.

A V-150 tank with a wreath of yellow and white flowers on its side led the march.

Ramos, who was then the Philippine Constabulary chief, and then Defense minister Juan Ponce Enrile were the key personalities in the symbolic “Salubungan” on February 25, 1986.

READ: Aquino attends ‘salubungan’ reenactment at People Power Monument

Later that day, dictator President Ferdinand Marcos left his post as Senator Benigno Aquino Jr.’s widow Corazon Aquino took over as the new President. This symbolized the restoration of democracy in the country.

Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor said the traditional reenactment of the Salubong signifies the unity and cooperation of the military and police from the Edsa revolution days up to present.

“Nag cross yung AFP and PC and they joined forces. Napakalaking bagay na gunitain ang Edsa revolution sa ating demokrasya na ating tinatamasa ngayon,” Mayor told reporters before the march.

The AFP and the PC crossed paths and joined forces. It is very important to acknowledge the Edsa revolution for the democracy we enjoy today.)

As the troops reached the People Power Monument where the commemoration rites were held, helicopters dropped yellow and white confetti on Edsa. CDG

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