OVP mum on deleted social media posts on EDSA

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Vice President (OVP) remained mum on the supposed deletion of Vice President Sara Duterte’s social media statement commemorating the EDSA people power revolution.

Reporters have sought comment from the OVP as Duterte’s statement, which was deleted less than an hour after it was posted on her social media pages, is a drastic change in tune compared to her previous statements on people power anniversaries.

In the now-deleted post, which is still up on the Facebook and X pages of bloggers, Duterte was quoted as urging Filipinos never to forget the sacrifices of “the brave souls” who united in the fight for democracy and freedom during the EDSA revolution that toppled the dictatorship of President Marcos’ father.

“On this day, we commemorate the brave souls who stood united on the streets of Edsa, fighting for democracy and freedom,” the statement said.

“Their courage and determination paved the way for a better Philippines, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us remember the lessons of Edsa – the power of unity, the strength of the Filipino spirit and the importance of standing up for what is right,” the statement added.

Filipinos must build a nation “where justice, peace and prosperity prevail, where every voice is heard and every dream is achievable,” it said.

“Together, we can overcome any challenge and create a brighter tomorrow for the generations to come. Happy Edsa anniversary to all Filipinos, may we continue to uphold the spirit of Edsa in all that we do,” it added.

Duterte also acknowledged the 38th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution as a “momentous occasion” for Filipinos.

Reporters who broke the news on X, formerly Twitter, were later asked to take down the post. Some news outlets still kept their breaking news items on the statement.

The historic EDSA Shrine, a symbol of the 1986 people power revolution, might soon become a national shine.

During last Sunday evening’s mass at the EDSA Shrine commemorating the 38th people power anniversary, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president Kalookan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David said the shrine’s