The Philippines became popular worldwide when the bloodless revolution erupted—the EDSA People Power’s Revolution that made history on February 22 to 25, 1986.
The event stemmed from a series of events that resulted from the dictatorship led by President Ferdinand Marcos. In 1972, when Martial Law was declared, various human rights were curtailed, especially of those who stood up against the environment.
When Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Sr., a staunch member of the opposition, was shot dead upon returning from exile on August 21, 1983, public sympathy was evident as thousands flocked to attend his funeral.
To legitimize his presidency in the midst of the increased clamor for justice, Marcos declared a snap election, which took place on February 7, 1986. Urged by the opposition, Ninoy’s widow, Corazon Aquino ran against the dictator.
Outraged by the supposed fraud that took place during the elections, various factions took action, such as the Reform the Armed Forces Movement that attempted a coup attempt against Marcos. But the move was pre-empted with Marcos capturing its alleged instigators. This led to Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and Armed Forces Vice-Chief of Staff Fidel V. Ramos withdrawing their support from the government.
The Catholic Church, particularly Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, called for Filipinos to gather in EDSA to lend their support to the rebel leaders. As the days passed, the number of people grew, amounting to millions.
Masses were also held in different plazas all over the country to pray for freedom. Meanwhile, the EDSA rally remained peaceful despite the threat of soldiers and tanks. Families came and food was shared, even with the soldiers tasked to subdue the public. Mini-concerts were even staged, featuring performers like the APO Hiking Society.
On February 25, 1986, Corazon Aquino took the presidential oath directed by Claudio Teehankee, the Supreme Court Associate Justice. Proclaimed as the 11th President of the Republic of the Philippines, Aquino was the first lady to hold the highest position in the country. The Filipinos rejoiced, celebrating the end of a dictatorship, and reclaiming their freedom.
29 years later, we asked today’s young people what they thought of this historical event:
“Edsa People Power Revolution is the convocation of every Filipino with one goal, to free our country from tyranny and oppression.” – Victor Juan, 23, Medical Claims Analyst
“Though I was not able to witness how our freedom was revived at that time, I would say that (EDSA People Power) it is very significant because I am experiencing the freedom that my fellow Filipinos fought for. Though our freedom is not absolute, still we continue to seek and fight for it. And by that historical event it became a constant reminder that we, Filipinos, can be united and to have a common goal for our country.” – Justine Ejanda, 24, Segment Producer
“EDSA I is a gallant story of how ordinary people come together to topple a powerful dictator through peaceful means. Though remarkable, I don’t think it deserves to be celebrated through a holiday since the supposed gains of EDSA I, which are democracy and social justice, have not been attained over the years. Millions of Filipinos remain poor as post-EDSA administrations fail to provide equal opportunity for all. Social justice remains unrealized since political power, until now, stays in the hands of the moneyed political families who benefit from bad electoral system.” – Emilee Olaso, 24, High School Guidance Counselor
The opinions may vary on the topic of the EDSA Revolution, but one thing cannot be denied: it is an integral part of our history, its lessons resounding across the decades.
Edas