Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday recalled her experience as a 20-year-old protester in 1986 as the country marks the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
“I was turning 20 years old when I joined the millions of Filipinos who went to EDSA in 1986 to make our voices heard, end a 20-year dictatorship, and fight for democracy, human rights and dignity, and a chance for a better future,” she said.
Hontiveros expressed pride in students, teachers and youth organizations for leading this year’s commemoration, even without an official state holiday.
“We should take inspiration from the courage of our young kababayans, and never be cowed into fear and inactivity. We must speak truth to power, overcome disinformation and historical distortion, and continue to resist the corruption, violence, and lust for power of those who are supposed to serve the nation,” the senator said.
Hontiveros also pointed to the political rivalry between the Marcos and Duterte factions, saying both seek to dominate the country.
“Let us not grow tired, weary, or afraid to act for what is right, especially now that the Marcos and Duterte camps are fighting, both wanting to rule over the country. Now more than ever, we must not stay silent,” she emphasized.
The senator noted that, despite the removal of Marcos Sr. in 1986, the fight for clean governance and national progress remains unfinished.
Corruption, cronyism and oligarchy still thrive, she said, alongside low wages, rising prices and a lack of adequate housing.
“We still have much to strive for before achieving the promise brought by the EDSA People Power Revolution. But as the whole world witnessed back then, nothing is impossible when the people unite and take action,” she concluded.
The EDSA People Power Revolution is considered one of the most significant moments in Philippine history that showcased the power of collective action.
Despite the day being declared a special working holiday, various schools and organizations still held events to commemorate the revolution.
In Quezon City, Mayor Joy Belmonte led a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the EDSA People Power Monument.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines and several advocacy groups also participated in the commemoration.