28 February 2013 -- Filipinos in Riyadh joined the Philippine Embassy in a somber commemoration of the 27th Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution at the Liwasang Bonifacio inside the Embassy compound on February 25.
Simultaneous celebrations also took place in different Philippine curriculum schools in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region. The program started with the traditional flag raising ceremony, followed by messages and community singing of patriotic songs.
In his opening remarks, Cultural Officer Mohamad Taha Guinomla remarked that each year’s EDSA celebration would be made more meaningful by recalling the people who “risked their lives in going against an oppressive regime that suppressed democracy in the country.”
Noting that the theme of this year’s celebrations, “Pilipinas Natin, Abot Tanaw Na”, Guinomla underscored the importance of continuing the struggle of the late Senator Ninoy Aquino.
For her part, DSWD Attaché Nilda Olivia shared her personal thoughts on EDSA entitled “Sa Ngalan ng Anak, Ina at Ama”, referencing President Benigno S. Aquino III and his late parents. She mentioned that Filipinos should unite to achieve the spirit of EDSA for a better Philippines for the future through the “Daang Matuwid.”
Police Attaché Jonathan Ureta likewise discussed the “Uniformed Men of Pre-EDSA and Post-EDSA.” Mr. Ureta said the “once feared” uniformed men of the defunct Philippine Constabulary are “now donning civilian titles” under the Philippine National Police and “abiding faithfully to the supremacy of civilian authorities.”
Meanwhile, the International Philippine School in Al-Khobar (IPSR) had a week-long commemoration of EDSA. Rooms were decorated with yellow confetti, and essay and coloring contests on the meaning of EDSA to grade-school pupils were held.
On February 25 itself, all IPSR faculty and staff wore yellow shirts and 27 yellow balloons were released into the air in coordination with the IPSR Student Council.
Similar events were observed by the International Philippine School in Riyadh, Palm Crest International School, Second Philippine International School, Future Generations International School, Al Taj International School, Riyadh International School and Elite International School. Some of these schools gave lectures and video presentations on EDSA. END