Pres. Aquino to lead 29th EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary Next Week

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the 29th anniversary celebration of the EDSA People Power Revolution on February 25, as major events are set to be held in Malacañang Palace and at the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City.

On February 24, the President will participate in a ceremony to honor outstanding youth organizations, to be held at the Heroes Hall of Malacañang, Emily Abrera of the EDSA People Power Commission said on Tuesday.

Abrera said the commission has partnered with the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards Foundation to honor youth organizations that have exemplified the spirit of People Power and bayanihan through their programs and projects.

The award, now on its 12th year, continues to encourage youth involvement in nation building, she said.

There will also be a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig on the morning of February 24 to commemorate all past heroes, including the military personnel who were at the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, Abrera said, adding that former president Fidel Ramos will be invited to lead the activities.

On February 25, President Aquino and the rest of the First Family will be invited as guests of honor for the activities at the EDSA Shrine, which will begin with a wreath-laying ceremony at the People Power Monument.

A mass will then be held at the EDSA Shrine, to be celebrated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle.

“Groups and individuals who peacefully fought for freedom and democracy will also be in attendance,” Abrera said, noting that organizers are keeping this year’s celebration simple but are planning to go all out for the 30th anniversary next year.

This year’s anniversary celebration will carry the theme, “Ipagpatuloy ang Pagbabago.” PND (as)