MANILA - President Rodrigo Duterte urged Filipinos Tuesday to set aside "petty" political differences as the Philippines marked the 34th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution which restored democracy in the country.

Duterte, who is known to publicly rebuke his critics, made the call as he hailed the non-violent revolution that served as a catalyst for the restoration of democracy in the country, saying it remains, beyond doubt, “one of the most remarkable events in our nation’s history.”

“Inspired by the freedoms that we secured in February 1986, let us all rise above our petty political differences so that we may, together, ensure that the legacy of EDSA will remain relevant in the years ahead,” the President said in his message.

READ: President Rodrigo Duterte’s message on the 34th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution #EDSA34 @ABSCBNNews pic.twitter.com/optc1a0uXL

— Arianne Merez (@arianne_merez) February 25, 2020

Millions of Filipinos trooped to EDSA during the four-day uprising from Feb. 22 to 25, 1986 that led to the ouster of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos.

The President said he shares a sense of “renewed hope” that the succeeding generations of Filipinos will be inspired to protect and preserve the liberties won during the EDSA revolution.

“I therefore join the valiant heroes of EDSA and the countless others whose lives were touched by this bloodless uprising in commemorating its 34th anniversary…” he said.

Malacañang earlier said the President is not expected to attend any of the activities commemorating the People Power Revolution. He, however, is expected to attend the Presidential Security Group change of command ceremony on Tuesday afternoon.

Duterte earlier declared Feb. 25 a special non-working day in lieu of the People Power anniversary.