Today Feb 22, 2010 is a national holiday here in the Philippines. Since there was no school I used this as a chance to bond more with my nieces and took them to the swimming pool. It was also a chance for them to practice their English and me to practice my Tagalog .

EDSA day is celebrated on the closest Monday to February 25th. It is to celebrate the 24th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution which has become an important part of Filipino history. It was a time when the people of the Philippines took political matters into their own hands and worked towards ousting a President who many felt was abusing his power. On February 22nd President Marcos conceded the Presidency of the Philippines to Corazon Aquino and fled to the United States.

On February 25th Aquino was sworn in as the new President and a new constitution was in the beginning stages of being formed. The new constitution was ratified on February 2nd 1987. Although I am not a voter and would rather not get involved in Filipino politics, I am a student of world history and realize the importance of this day in the Philippines.

Good books on the subject:
From Marcos to Aquino: Local Perspectives on Political Transition in the Philippines

Corazon Aquino: The Story of a Revolution

 So glad to report that this week we have arrived in the Philippines. Not a complete move but working towards someday doing just that. We have spent the first few days just adjusting to the time difference and visiting with friends we haven’t seen since last year.

I have been to Jollibee and Chow King, my fave places to eat, a couple of times already and it seems that there are more Starbucks here than anywhere I’ve ever been. Aside from that I’m finally figuring out the Internet Providers and prices. I’ve already been to Mall of Asia, Manila Bay, and Market Market and will share pics with you guys when I get them uploaded.

A strange occurance is the amount of Americans I’ve seen here this year. Although I’ve only been away for a year the amount of foreigners I have encountered in our little suburb of Manila suprises me. I have seen many younger Americans in the malls and places I’ve been. I guess the secret is out!