By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Jose Nadie Arceo ordered the suspension of work in government offices and classes in public schools in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, on Tuesday in commemoration of the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
This comes despite Feb. 25 being declared only a special working day nationwide under Proclamation No. 727, s. 2024.
In Executive Order No. 003, issued on Feb. 24, Arceo said the suspension allows government workers and students to meaningfully observe and participate in activities related to the anniversary.
Recognized worldwide as a symbol of courage, the EDSA People Power Revolution resulted from the resistance and sacrifices of thousands of Filipinos. Its essence should always be recognized, felt, and observed, the order stated.
Arceo emphasized that the revolution, which took place from Feb. 22 to 25, 1986, remains one of the most significant events in Philippine history, symbolizing the Filipino people’s unity, democracy, and commitment to freedom.
Exceptions were made to ensure the continued delivery of essential public services. Offices and agencies involved in basic health services, disaster response, public safety, and other critical government functions were required to remain operational.
Heads of government offices were tasked with determining the necessary skeletal workforce to ensure continued operations, if applicable.
Employees were also reminded to complete their tasks and coordinate accordingly to maintain efficient government transactions despite the shortened work schedule.
Private institutions were encouraged to suspend work and classes at their discretion in solidarity with the commemoration.
Several Catholic schools in Bacolod City also suspended classes to mark the anniversary.
The University of St. La Salle (USLS) declared Feb. 25 a special non-class, non-work day in solidarity with De La Salle Philippines schools. In a Facebook post, USLS encouraged Lasallians to reflect on their faith, uphold their values, and deepen their historical awareness while working toward a just and compassionate society.
The University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos and La Consolacion College-Bacolod also suspended classes to honor the historic moment when Filipinos united for democracy, freedom, and peace.
“This day serves as a powerful reminder of the courage, unity, and resilience of the Filipino people in reclaiming our nation’s future,” La Consolacion College-Bacolod said in a Facebook post.
“May we continue to uphold the values of democracy and be advocates of truth, justice, and solidarity in our communities. Let us honor the past by being responsible citizens today,” it added.
