26 February 2015 - In observance of the 29^thAnniversary of EDSA People Power Revolution, the Consulate in Jeddah held an On-the-Spot Painting Competition among the high school students of Philippine Curriculum Schools in Jeddah on 20 February 2015 at its Community Hall. 

The competition was participated in by 19 high school students from Al Dura (GEMS) International School, Bader International School, Durat Al Sharq International School and the International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ). Ms. Yara Salah El Din A. Gharib, a fourth year student from IPSJ bagged the 1^st place, while the 2^nd and 3^rd places went to Ms. Chynna M. Tadili, (4^th Year, Bader International School), and Ms. Cybil Faye M. Ong (4^th Year, IPSJ), respectively. On the other hand, the 4^th, 5^th and 6^th places went to Ms. Reham S. Al Sultan (4^th Year, GEMS), Ms. Valerie Nicole D. Estabillo (4^th Year, Durat), and Mr. Mustapha Z. Dandamun (4^th Year, IPSJ), respectively.

The On-the-spot paintings were based on the theme of the celebration, “EDSA 29: Ituloy ang Pagbabbago” and were completed within the allotted time of four (4) hours. Most of the paintings resemble the “people power” scene in 1986 such as hands flashing the letter L (“Laban” sign), dove, yellow ribbon, the face of the late President Cory Aquino, people with rosary, soldiers in the streets, and hands clasped together or “kapit-bisig”. Most of the paintings conveyed hope, peace and love for the country.

On 25 February 2015, a simple program took place at the Consulate to commemorate the EDSA 29. It was attended by the officers and staff of the Consulate together with the attached agencies, students and principals from Philippine Curriculum schools in Jeddah, parents and some Filipino community members. A singing of national anthem commenced the program followed by an overview of EDSA 1986 by Vice Consul Jim G. Minglana. Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan then read the speech that was delivered by President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA in commemoration of EDSA 29.

In his inspirational message, Consul General Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. appealed to everyone present, especially to the students, to draw inspiration from EDSA 1986 and to continue in our efforts to achieve lasting peace and prosperity that we dream to have for our beloved country.

The top six (6) winners of the painting competition were announced during the program.  Consul General awarded trophies, gift items and certificates of award to the top three winners while the fourth, fifth and sixth places received medals, gift items and certificates of award from the Consulate.  Their paintings will be donated to the Consulate to be publicly displayed in areas accessible to the public.

To further add solemnity to the event, Ms. Rachel Bartolome, a second runner-up of 2014 Jeddah Pop Icon Season 4, was invited to sing “Magkaisa” a song inspired by 1986 EDSA Revolution. At the end of the program, all attendees gathered for a simple “salo-salo” while enjoyed listening to another popular song, “Maalaala Mo Kaya”, rendered by Ms. Bartolome. END.