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How prayer, flowers and rosaries prevented bloody revolution?

 

Parian Monument 

Of the 12 months, February may have the least number of days but to Filipinos, the month of February is one of a few months with many events of national importance. 

February, aside from being the love month, it's also a month to commemorate because of other events happening in the country of national importance such as the commemoration of People Power Revolutions I, a revolution widely known as the Philippine revolution without a single shot fired from the two opposing forces. 

This 4-day revolution took place along EDSA in Manila Philippines on February 22, 23, 24, and 25, 1986 where millions of rosaries and flower-waving Filipinos converged on EDSA and prevented what could be a potentially bloody revolution.

Unlike revolutions in other countries where violence and bloodshed are inevitable, the Philippines' first People Power Revolution I was marked by peace and unity for which the country has gained prominence and admiration around the world. 

The absence of violence in these revolutions could be attributed to both sheer luck and the religiosity of the Filipinos. 

People Power Revolution I 

Parian Monument

The People Power Revolution is also known as the EDSA revolution I because it happened along the Epifanio De Los Santos Avenue or EDSA in Metro Manila, Philippines. 

The 4-day nonviolent revolution has gained prominence among countries around the world. This People Power Revolution also proves that a sitting president with his strong-armed forces can be toppled by civilians.


Causes 

One of the causes of the People Power Revolution was fueled by the assassination of the late Senator, Benigno Aquino Jr. the father and husband of the late Philippine Presidents, Noynoy Aquino and Corazon C. Aquino. 

Flowers, rosary, and prayers 

Parian Monument

Who would have thought that flowers, rosary, and prayers could prevent a potentially bloody revolution?

At the height of the first People Power Revolution, nuns, priests, and ordinary citizens were able to prevent a bloody revolution in the Philippines by offering flowers, rosaries, and prayers to opposing forces. 

Unfazed by the present danger in their lives, the aforesaid personalities risked their lives by offering their bodies as human shields. 

Miraculously, bloodshed was prevented. Not a single shot was fired from either the rebel or government forces during the standoff. The power of prayer and love among fellow Filipinos prevailed during these crucial moments. 

Sadly, the spirit of the revolution is slowly fading. The EDSA monument, the symbol of the celebration, is hardly recognized and visited by Filipinos.




Author

Samuel A. Escabarte, a Filipino whose hobbies include writing, reading and domestic travelling. Please follow this small website as I share with you this small, yet beautiful country's diverse, unique culture, historical events, and stunning scenery

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