THE 39TH anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution has once again raised the question of how the nation views its most defining moment of democracy. While many schools and institutions across the country, including some in Iloilo, have opted to suspend classes or shift to online learning in commemoration of this historic event, the decision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. not to declare February 25 a non-working holiday has sparked debate and stirred emotions.
The EDSA Revolution of 1986, which peacefully toppled the authoritarian regime of his dictator father, Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., is widely regarded as a landmark in the Philippines’ struggle for democracy. The bloodless uprising united Filipinos across the nation in a show of collective resolve, resulting in the restoration of freedom, political participation, and human rights. The significance of this anniversary cannot be overstated — it is a reminder of the power of the Filipino people to bring about change through peaceful means.
Yet, this year, the President’s decision to declare February 25 as a working holiday has drawn criticism from various sectors. Some perceive it as an attempt to diminish the legacy of EDSA, especially as the country continues to grapple with questions of governance, political dynasties, and the erosion of democratic institutions. Is this the government’s broader political agenda? Is it a political statement that seeks to reshape or downplay the narrative of the revolution? Or is it a reflection of changing values in a rapidly evolving political landscape?
The response from some of Iloilo’s educational institutions provides a clear contrast. Schools like the University of the Philippines Visayas, Central Philippine University, Western Institute of Technology, Assumption Iloilo, and Angelicum Iloilo have chosen to observe the day with class suspensions or online activities, allowing students to reflect on the values that the EDSA revolution sought to uphold — unity, freedom, and democracy. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the lessons of the revolution and passing its legacy to future generations, especially at a time when the nation is facing new challenges to its democratic processes. In a region that has historically been active in social movements and democratic causes, the response of these institutions underscores the need for the youth to remain engaged with the past and aware of the sacrifices made for the freedoms they enjoy today.
The role of education and public discourse is paramount in shaping how future generations understand the revolution. In Iloilo, where many students and communities are encouraged to reflect on EDSA’s relevance through activities and discussions, there is a clear effort to ensure that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. However, this is not the case nationwide. While some regions and institutions may push for a deeper understanding of EDSA’s legacy, others may fail to fully engage in these conversations, leaving future generations to question the importance of a historical event that shaped the nation.
As the nation looks toward the future, it is crucial that the lessons of EDSA continue to serve as a foundation for democratic engagement and the protection of civil liberties. Whether or not the day is officially declared a holiday should not determine the depth of reflection or appreciation for the revolution’s contributions to the country. What matters most is ensuring that the values of democracy, freedom, and justice endure, as Iloilo’s educational institutions have shown in their efforts to honor this legacy.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the lessons of the past are not lost in the face of political shifts.
