MANILA, Philippines — The traditional "Salubungan" program for the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on Thursday included children of EDSA heroes and youth leaders in the reenactment of the 1986 revolt.
The youth were included in the program "to symbolize the new generation’s desire to keep aflame the ideals of EDSA."
The traditional program consisted of a flag raising and commemorative program where President Benigno Aquino III is the guest of honor.
The military also participated in the celebration as the Philippine Air Force opened the program with a high-speed opener pass of two FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" light-interim fighter jets.
Two UH-IH "Huey" helicopters then dropped yellow confetti during the "Salubungan" rites which demonstrated the consolidation of military and civilian sympathizers of the revolt.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos headed the military contingent while Booby Aquino, son of the late Sen. Butch Aquino, headed the civilian re-enactors.
One of the highlights of the reenactment ceremonies was the Simba armored fighting vehicle bedecked with yellow flowers.
The president then delivered a speech before the crowd at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City.
FULL TEXT: President Aquino delivers 'EDSA at 30' speech