The 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution symbolizes the willingness of the Filipinos to stand together to fight for freedom and democracy, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.

“This historic event we are remembering today symbolizes the Filipino people’s resolve to stand up and come together in the name of freedom and democracy. Three decades hence, may the victories of the People Power Revolution continue to inspire us to unite for peace and inclusive progress now and in the future,” Lorenzana said in his message for the occasion posted on the Department of National Defense’s Facebook page.

He also urged every member of the defense and military establishment to remain committed in excellence and its sworn duty of protecting the country and the people.

“Let us cherish and be true to the trust bestowed upon us by our countrymen. May we continue to be instruments in upholding the sacred ideals that our founding fathers and heroes hold dear,” Lorenzana said.

Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said the commemoration of the peaceful revolution relives the day when all Filipinos showed to the entire world their unity, resolve, courage, and determination.

“More than being a public holiday, your Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines relive the spirit of that day when we manifest to the world the unity, resolve, courage, and determination of Filipinos,” he added.

Arevalo said that it is the hope of the entire AFP that all Filipinos would join hands in the quest for peace and the yearning for progress.

“Let us reject and fight the members and leaders of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) and Daesh-inspired Local Terrorist Groups (LTG) who menace society,” he added.

Aside from this, he also urged all Filipinos to unite with the military in neutralizing the CTG — the proverbial wolves in sheep’s clothing and defeating the LTG who wreck the lives of children, destroy our families, and ruin the country’s posterity.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said no major untoward incidents were reported during the occasion.

“PNP respects the right of the people to peaceful assembly and always willing to assist upon coordination, to avoid congestion, and maintain order and efficient traffic flow. PNP remains alert and vigilant to prevent the occurrence of crimes and ready to respond to any call for assistance,” PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac, said in a statement.

Reports said fewer people participated in this year’s rites with the theme “Edsa 2020: Kapayapaan ng Bayan, Simbulo ng Kalayaang Ipinaglaban”, due to the coronavirus disease-2019 (Covid-19) threat. (with reports from Christopher Lloyd/Caliwan/PNA)