BY MARY JOY CAVAÑAS
ILOILO City – Amid the national debate over the removal of the EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary from the 2024 holiday roster, Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed a more nuanced stance.
He reflected on both the event’s deep historical ties to Iloilo and the observed diminishing fervor in its annual commemoration.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. excluded the historic event from the list of holidays for the upcoming year, as per Proclamation No. 368 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Oct. 11.
But while the EDSA anniversary was dropped, Chinese New Year and Christmas Eve were added as special non-working days.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the historical event, Treñas said the EDSA revolution has a deep-rooted significance in Iloilo’s history.
“The first time I was appointed to an office in the city government was because of EDSA,” Treñas said.
Following the revolution, he was designated by then President Corazon Aquino as officer-in-charge (OIC) councilor in Iloilo City.
However, Treñas also observed the waning enthusiasm for the event’s commemoration.
“Although it was recognized as a holiday, I’ve noted a declining number of celebrants over the years. It’s an event that should resonate with those who see its eternal value,” the mayor said.
The EDSA Revolution, prominent for its series of demonstrations primarily in Metro Manila between February 22 to 25, 1986, led to the toppling of dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., father of the current President./PN
