Former senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II believes that the EDSA People Power Revolution should be remembered as a pivotal moment for unity and lasting peace in the Philippines. As the nation prepares to mark the historic event on February 25, Honasan emphasizes the need to move beyond divisiveness and embrace the spirit of reform and good governance that defined the revolution.
Honasan, who played a key role in the People Power Revolution, recalls how a small force of soldiers, including himself, supported General Fidel Ramos and Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile as they broke away from the government of Ferdinand E. Marcos and sought refuge in Camp Crame. The sight of almost a million people filling the stretch of EDSA in front of Camp Crame served as a powerful symbol of unity against loyalist troops.
However, Honasan laments that over the years, the commemoration of EDSA ’86 has become a platform for further division and disunity instead of being a shining moment in Philippine history. He believes that the anniversary should be an occasion for the nation to come together, dream, pray, and work hard towards a better future for all citizens, with a shared vision for the next generation.
In a statement last February 11, Honasan highlighted the recent visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Mindanao as a modest step towards reconciliation. This visit comes amidst calls for secession by his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. Marcos, during the commemoration of Constitution Day 2024 in Makati City on February 8, firmly rejected the idea of separating Mindanao, stating that it is “doomed to fail” and goes against the constitution.
Duterte had previously suggested the idea of separating Mindanao from the rest of the country following reports that the Marcos administration allegedly allowed entry to International Criminal Court investigators looking into Duterte’s controversial drug war. Marcos’ trip to Mindanao, according to Honasan, represents a significant stride towards promoting unity, reconciliation, and healing.
Honasan commends Marcos for demonstrating humility, statesmanship, duty, and patriotism during his visit to Mindanao. He believes that this journey towards unity should transcend partisan politics and foster constructive discussions among leaders about the concerns affecting Filipino citizens. By doing so, the country can propel itself forward and overcome the challenges it faces.
As the Philippines commemorates the EDSA People Power Revolution, Honasan calls on all citizens, leaders, and the nation as a whole to reflect on the significance of this historic event. It is an opportunity to remember the power of unity and the strength of the Filipino people when they stand together for a common cause. Honasan’s hope is that this reflection will inspire a renewed commitment to working towards a better future, where unity, reconciliation, and healing prevail.
In conclusion, the EDSA People Power Revolution should be remembered as a turning point in Philippine history, where the people and its soldiers stood united for reform and good governance. It is imperative that the anniversary of this event serves as a reminder of the power of unity and a call for reconciliation. By embracing these principles, the Philippines can move forward, overcome challenges, and build a brighter future for all its citizens.
Source: The Manila Times
