PEP: Stars in the EDSA People Power of 1986

Stars will shine later at the the People Power Monument for Tatak EDSA 25, a commemoration of the 25th anniversary of People Power, which happened in 1986. The hosts for tonight's program include Kris Aquino, Boy Abunda, Ruffa Gutierrez, Ogie Alcasid, and Dingdong Dantes. Special guests include Black Eyed Peas member Apl.de.Ap, and other Filipino artists. Back in 1986, several celebrities also showed support for the People Power Revolution by attending the rallies, and composing and performing songs for it. Here are several stars who were present in the historical event, 25 years ago: Inspired by the successful revolution, Jim Paredes composed a song called "Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo." It was performed and recorded by a group of young recording artists then, including Jim's own group, APO Hiking Society. APO was composed of two other members, namely Buboy Garrovillo and Danny Javier. Also lending their voices to "Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo" are Celeste Legaspi, Coritha & Eric, Edru Abraham, Gretchen Barretto, Ivy Violan, Inang Laya, Joseph Olfindo, Kuh Ledesma, Leah Navarro, Lester Demetillo, Noel Trinidad, and Subas Herrero. Award-winning director Mike de Leon directed the music video for "Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo." Young singer Virna Lisa sang "Magkaisa," a song composed by Sen. Tito Sotto after the revolution. Freddie Aguilar performed "Bayan Ko," the anthem against former Pres. Ferdinand Marcos's dictatorship. The song was originally written during the American occupation. June Keithley used Ramon Jacinto's radio station, Radyo Bandido, to broadcast the events that were unraveling in EDSA. Other celebrities who were prominent figures during the People Power were Maya Valdez, Leo Martinez, Heber Bartolome, and, of course, Kris Aquino. - Mark Angelo Ching, PEP