Filipinos online revisited the lessons of the EDSA People Power Revolution as the whole nation commemorated its 35th anniversary on Thursday, February 25.
On February 25, 1986, millions of Filipinos from all walks of life marched as one to topple dictator Ferdinand Marcos, paving the way for the return of democracy in the country.
Six presidencies later, democracy in the Philippines has come under threat as human rights abuses, attacks on the media, and assault against academic freedom persist under the Duterte administration.
Commission on Elections (Comelec) spokesperson James Jimenez and other netizens said Filipinos can best commemorate the EDSA anniversary by registering to vote.
Others called on Filipinos to reject historical revisionism.
Oh and let’s use it as a reminder as well of Marcos’ dictatorship and corruption. No to historical revisionism please – it’s an affront to those who fought for the country on this day 35 years ago.
— Natashya Gutierrez (@natashya_g) February 25, 2021#EDSA35
Netizens also said that the EDSA People Power Revolution should serve as a constant reminder for Filipinos to stand up against threats to democracy, including the controversial anti-terror law.
Former University of the Philippines Student Regent Raoul Manuel believes that if Filipinos can topple a dictatorship 35 years ago, they can certainly do it again.
Some netizens said the EDSA Revolution serves as reminder of the power of united Filipinos to stand up against tyranny and injustice.
#EDSA35 should not only be about our opposition against the Marcoses. It's about our commitment to and with the people, to stand up against tyranny, dictatorship, and injustice.
— Vince
Maraming apelyido ang diktador. Pero lahat sila kailangan pabagsakin! #NeverForget #NeverAgain(@vinceliban) February 25, 2021
(@vinceliban) Other netizens said that the 1986 Revolution was not entirely “bloodless” as many lives were lost during the Marcos years, and that upholding the vision of EDSA is a way to honor these people.
no the edsa revolt wasnt bloodless. in fact the events that led to the people power that ousted marcos was one of the bloodiest in ph history with thousands of activists tortured, killed & disappeared. it would be a huge disserve to the people to say otherwise. good morning
— shaira (@shairaptrc) February 25, 2021
Here’s what other netizens had to say:
35th EDSA Anniversary – Curated tweets by MovePH– with reports from Eala Nolasco/Rappler.com