Right to peaceful assembly proven in 33rd EDSA Day rites

33RD EDSA PEOPLE POWER COMMEMORATION. Red, white and blue confetti abound during the commemoration of the 33rd anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution with “EDSA 2019: Pagkakaisa tungo sa Pambansang Kapayapaan” as theme held at the EDSA People Power Monument at the corner of EDSA corner White Plains Avenue in Quezon City Monday (Feb. 25, 2019). The National Historical Commission of the Philippines, in coordination with the EDSA People Power Commission, Spirit of EDSA Foundation and other national and local government agencies representatives, led the commemoration rites. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA — The people’s right to hold peaceful assembly and express their views was proven anew during the 33rd anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on Monday.

This was emphasized by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, in a message to reporters Tuesday.

“Those who intended to peaceably assemble and express their views were able to do so as enshrined in the Constitution. The AFP adheres to and supports this provision and thus, together with the PNP (Philippine National Police), has ensured that our citizens were able to exercise such rights,” Arevalo said.

He added that this year’s commemoration has been peaceful and meaningful.

“There was a simple ceremony at the People Power Monument in the morning attended by local government officials and representatives from the AFP and PNP,” the military official said.

“We will continue to imbibe the lessons of nationalism, patriotism, and most importantly, unity. These are the values that make your Armed Forces a dependable institution that is always ready to protect the people and secure the sovereignty of the state,” said Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP public affairs office chief.

Also, this means that whatever challenges the country faces, despite the differences in organizations and groups, Filipinos remains united and loyal to country and its Constitution.

“Rest assured that the AFP, together with the PNP and other security forces, is here to ensure the safety of the people present in today’s celebration. We will not let our guards down for any possible threat that may arise,” Detoyato earlier said.