Listen to voice of the people — LP on Edsa 1 anniversary

People occupied Edsa for several days in February 1986 to protect reformist soldiers involved in
a coup attempt against the Marcos regime. PEOPLE POWERBOOK, THE PHILIPPINE
REVOLUTION OF 1986

“Of all the messages of that first EDSA People Power, perhaps most important is this: At the core of all democracies is the duty to listen to the people.”

This was how the Liberal Party (LP) paid tribute to the “voice of the people” as it commemorates on Sunday the 32nd anniversary of the Edsa People Power Revolution that ended former President Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship.

This year’s program will be led by former President Fidel Ramos, who was a key figure in the uprising.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque earlier said that President Rodrigo Duterte, who recent surveys showed enjoyed the support of 80 percent of Filipinos, would not attend this year’s commemoration.

In a statement, the opposition political party said “there is nothing more powerful than the united voice of a people who know their rights and are ready to fight hard for them.”

“This is why in times of turmoil, exceptional are the Filipinos who stand their ground and speak their mind, especially if their right to be critical of the government is threatened. Everyone of us who dares to raise our voice for the sake of our country and the democracy we strive to protect — we matter. The triumph of our nation rests on our fiery will,” it added.

The historic day in 1986 marked the peaceful demonstrations of people from all walks of life to demand the end of the Marcos regime. /cbb