Rody: Protect democracy, human rights

May this serve as a constant reminder for all of us to remain vigilant in safeguarding our democratic institutions, preserving our values, and upholding our rights as Filipinos

President Rodrigo Duterte, whose administration has faced criticism over alleged human rights violations, said the 1986 EDSA Revolution should inspire the nation to safeguard democratic institutions, Filipino values, and human rights.

Duterte made the call on Thursday as he commemorated the 35th anniversary of the historic event that toppled the two-decade rule of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

“As we contemplate the relevance of this occasion, let us proceed with renewed hope and optimism towards the realization of our shared aspirations for our nation,” Duterte said through a statement.

“May this serve as a constant reminder for all of us to remain vigilant in safeguarding our democratic institutions, preserving our values, and upholding our rights as Filipinos,” he added.

The Chief Executive, known to publicly rebuke his critics, also called for unity “in building a legacy” for the next generation.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by millions of Filipinos who gathered in EDSA in 1986, as well as the “valiant heroes” of that time, to put an end to Marcos’ dictatorship.

The peaceful uprising was recognized worldwide as it led to the ouster of Marcos — remembered in history as a human rights violator and plunderer.

“Today, we mark the 35th Anniversary of the People Power Revolution inspired by the valor of those whose sacrifice made the liberties we enjoy today possible,” Duterte said.

“Guided by the spirit of EDSA, let us set aside our differences and work together in building a legacy that we can proudly leave behind for future generations of Filipinos,” he added.

Since assuming office in 2016, Duterte has not attended a single EDSA celebration to commemorate the ouster of Marcos, whose family has close ties with him.

His mother — Soledad Duterte — was a leading Davao City anti-Marcos figure.

Duterte has been a vocal ally of the Marcoses and has repeatedly expressed his admiration for the strongman’s brand in his speeches.

In 2016, he approved the transfer of the late dictator’s remains from Ilocos Norte to the Libingan ng mga Bayani, leaving the public enraged.

The Marcos family has faced ill-gotten wealth-related cases, but five of these have been dismissed.

As we contemplate the relevance of this occasion, let us proceed with renewed hope and optimism towards the realization of our shared aspirations for our nation.

The search has so far yielded P170 billion in jewelry, paintings, real estate properties, company assets, and cash, according to the Presidential Commission on Good Government.

However, the Commission on Human Rights said the forfeiture of cases does not clear the Marcoses from abuses they committed during martial law.

Government officials held a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the People Power Monument along EDSA to commemorate the occasion.