by ES Subong

Iloilo City (24 February) -- President Gloria Arroyo said EDSA 1 in 1986 was one of the most important events in the world in the 20th century, in an interview over radio station DZRH, before flying to Eastern Samar the other day.

Arroyo said the days of February 22-26 in 1986 were important days in our history saying that the world embraced EDSA 1 22 years ago, and tolerated EDSA 2 in 2001.

The President, however, said the world will not forgive EDSA 3 and instead, will condemn the Philippines as a broken political system that is hopelessly unstable.

Arroyo said should EDSA 3 were to triumph in the Philippines, investors will think twice about locating in the Philippines and by then the country will not be able to weather the rise in crude oil prices in the world.

She said the Filipinos want political stability, clear direction and future in the economy and social justice, which her administration is working hard at this time.

Asked how she dealt with all the issues hurled at her including calls for her to resign, Arroyo said she remained focus like a "laser beam" to the country's economy and this has brought in foreign investments in billions of dollars to the country.

Arroyo also said her focus is part of the discipline she has developed for herself, as well as her father's (the late President Diosdado Macapagal) advice "to do what is right, do your best and let God take care of the rest."

President Arroyo had issued proclamation No. 1224 in January 2007 declaring February 22-25 of every year, as the EDSA People Power Commemoration Week to perpetuate and propagate the spirit of the historic and non-violent 1986 People Power Revolution which has gained the respect and admiration of the world.