The Edsa People Power revolution will be commemorated this Saturday, with varying degrees of fervor and fondness. At best, however, it is a glaring reminder that all our high hopes eventually amount to nothing without follow through.
Thirty-one years ago, people were overwhelmed with a sense of new beginnings. A sad and conflicting chapter of the nation’s history has just ended and Filipinos looked forward to a period of change. Soon after, though, it dawned on us that the change appeared nominal. Only names and faces changed—old habits and systems continued, leading to frustration.
The same pattern occurred with every change in administration. Every regime begins with high hopes, but soon enough people get disillusioned, real change did not seem to be happening, and people resorted to wishing they could begin again, soon.
This latest administration is no exception, even as it might be noisier about bringing about change than its predecessors.
Make no mistake about it: Edsa is an event that has taught us many valuable lessons. The most important among these is our propensity to glorify change in itself, without giving adequate thought as to how lasting change will be brought about. Transitions can cause euphoria, but without deliberation, careful implementation and consistency, it fails.
Many things would be an apt theme for this weekend’s commemoration. Jubilation is not one of them.