EDSA People Power 39: A Legacy of Democracy and Unity
What is EDSA and Why is it Called That?
The name "EDSA" comes from Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, the major highway in Metro Manila where millions of Filipinos gathered in 1986 to peacefully overthrow the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. The road, which serves as a vital link across the metro, became a historical landmark as it witnessed the triumph of the people's collective voice. EDSA is more than just a physical location; it represents the power of democracy and the resilience of Filipinos in fighting for their rights.
Why Was the EDSA People Power Revolution Established?
The EDSA People Power Revolution was a response to decades of authoritarian rule under Marcos. His declaration of Martial Law in 1972 led to widespread human rights violations, suppression of press freedom, and corruption. Thousands of activists, journalists, and opposition leaders were arrested or silenced. Economic decline and political repression fueled the growing resistance against the regime.
The assassination of Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. in 1983 ignited nationwide unrest, culminating in the 1986 snap elections that were marred by fraud. As Filipinos refused to accept the results, they took to the streets from February 22-25, 1986, calling for Marcos' resignation. Through a non-violent revolution, they succeeded, leading to the inauguration of Corazon Aquino as the country’s first female president. The event became a global inspiration for peaceful uprisings, influencing democratic movements in other countries.
Key Figures of the EDSA Revolution
Several individuals played crucial roles in the revolution:
Corazon Aquino – The widow of Ninoy Aquino and symbol of democracy, she led the opposition and became the first female president of the Philippines.
Fidel V. Ramos – Then the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, he defected from Marcos and joined the revolution.
Juan Ponce Enrile – The Minister of National Defense at the time, he also broke away from Marcos and sought the support of the people.
Jaime Cardinal Sin – The Archbishop of Manila, who used Radio Veritas to urge Filipinos to support the revolution peacefully.
Millions of Ordinary Filipinos – Citizens from all walks of life came together, bringing food, flowers, and prayers instead of weapons, showing the true strength of unity.
The Relevance of EDSA People Power Today
Thirty-nine years later, the legacy of EDSA remains relevant, reminding Filipinos of the power of unity and peaceful protest. However, the increasing spread of historical distortions threatens its significance. Many young Filipinos are unaware of the dictatorship’s realities, making it crucial to uphold the truth and defend democracy. The rise of digital misinformation and the revisionist portrayal of history highlight the need to educate future generations about what truly happened.
Why is EDSA Important Today?
A Symbol of Democracy – EDSA showed that democracy is a right that citizens must actively protect.
Reminder Against Tyranny – It warns against the dangers of absolute power and dictatorship.
Inspiration for Future Generations – It teaches young Filipinos that collective action can bring change.
Call for Vigilance – With modern threats to press freedom and misinformation, the spirit of EDSA reminds us to stay informed and critical of political narratives.
Influence on Global Movements – The non-violent revolution became a model for democratic uprisings worldwide, proving that change is possible without bloodshed.
Challenges in Preserving the Legacy of EDSA
While the revolution is celebrated annually, its memory is fading among younger generations. Some challenges include:
Historical Revisionism – The spread of false narratives that downplay the abuses during Martial Law.
Lack of Awareness – Many young Filipinos are not taught the full history of EDSA in schools.
Political Divide – Different political factions interpret the events of EDSA in conflicting ways, leading to confusion about its significance.
Economic Struggles – Some believe the revolution did not bring the economic prosperity they hoped for, making them question its success.
Conclusion
EDSA People Power 39 is not just a commemoration; it is a call to action. As the years pass, it is our responsibility to educate the next generation about the truth behind this historic event. Democracy is never permanent—it requires constant vigilance, critical thinking, and active participation. The spirit of EDSA teaches us that no leader is above the people and that the power of unity can shape a nation’s future.
Sources:
"People Power Revolution." Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph
Almonte, Jose T. Endless Journey: A Memoir. Anvil Publishing, 2015.https://tuklas.up.edu.ph/Record/UP-1685675941123958248