Rough Groove

24 Feb – People Power Anniversary, Ayala Ave, 1515H

1515H, just a few minutes ago and the northbound lane of Ayala Ave. was closed to traffic. At the intersection of Ayala Ave. – Rufino St., riot police were already standing by, with shields and helmets. While on the other end, protesters with yellow flags and the religious, in the guise of a prayer rally were marching.

24 February, in time for the 20th anniversary of the first EDSA 1 that toppled then President Marcos to oblivion and coup rumors were filling the highly tensioned air. Already, a high ranking general in the Armed Forces was relieve from his post for the coup attempt. Cory Aquino, at the same time is organizing a “prayer” rally at Ayala Ave. and that is the scene that unfolded just a few minutes ago.

Riot police in full anti-rally gear at an intersection of Ayala Ave. waiting in position for the rallyers to stop them from their march.

Seminarians/Priests still in sutanas playing their role so that the supposed “prayer” rally will be complete.

Butz Aquino, as one of the marchers while flag waving rallyers stop a few meters from the riot police.

As the economy is on the upswing, highly partisan groups with their own vested interests are taking advantage of the EDSA I commemoration, rallying here and there, shouting for GMA’a head. But then, what alternative can they give? Most of the people are tired of these protests but they still continue. Blaming the government for all of their miseries. Its again making a dent on the somewhat upturn of the economy and the peso. And the organizers? Basking again in the limelight to tell the world that even if they have had their time in governing the country, making it good but were also failures, have still a right to criticize and demand that government straighten up. They had a chance before but squandered it. What gall!

Photos taken with Nokia 6680 3G phone.