We are privileged to be in the Philippines at this time. 
The country is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the 1986
The country is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the 1986 People Power Revolution
that overthrew the Marcos Regime and brought
Democracy back to the Philippines.
The People Power Revolution is famed because it was a
Bloodless revolution,
led by people who were willing to give their lives if necessary.
Citizens from across Manila showed their solidarity
by blocking tanks and soldiers with their presence and prayers.
Some of the main participants were nuns and other religious leaders
led by Cardinal Jaime Sin.
A new statue of Cardinal Sinwas unveiled near the other now-famous statues of
other key figures from the time.
Yellow is the color of "EDSA"
When Benigno Aquino returned to Manila in spite of warnings that his life was in danger,
and was assasinated upon his return,
his wife, Corazon Aquino, took up his banner and, wearing yellow,
lead the opposition against Marcos.
So, on Friday, all you could see anywhere were seas of yellow.
This picture, however, was taken of the EDSA 10K run
on our way to church today
because we, as missionaries, can't really be anywhere near large crowds
gathering like they did Friday night.
So this is sort of what it looked like all over Metro-Manila on Friday.
All day.
And well into the night.
This is the
People Power Monument.
It was erected where the main activities of the Revolution took place.
Everything that happened took place at the junction of
EDSA (main road through the area) and White Plains
which leads to the Philippines Area Office,
so we pass it every day.
President Benigno Aquino III
son of Corazon and Benigno
is the current president.
He released this great balloon replica of the flag of the Philippines.
He was also involved in a reinactment of the original revolt.
The Fireworks at midnight woke us up.
But we had a perfect view of them through our bedroom window!!
We were interested to read about the missionaries avoiding large crowds in the Philippines. We were told the same thing in South Africa at the time of the elections in 2009 and the World Cup in 2010.
ReplyDeleteHowever one time we could not avoid this problem. We were returning home on the only road running from Port Durnford to Esikhawini just after the election results had come in and ran smack dab in the middle of a celebration that covered the road for many yards.
We slowed down, crawled through the crowd and as we passed the truck that was the focus point of the celebration Bill raised his thumb. The people smiled from ear to ear and cheered to see a white man indicate 'way to go' to a crowd of black Africans.
Needless to say we were happy to clear the celebration and continue on our way towards home. The Lord does watch over his missionaries.