The true meaning of EDSA

The EDSA People Power Revolution is one of the significant democratic movements in the world’s contemporary history. It was held from Feb. 22 to 25, 1986 along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or EDSA. It marked the peaceful overthrow of the two-decade martial rule of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the restoration of democracy under Corazon Aquino.

Today, Feb. 22, marks the first day of the four-day People Power revolution.

EDSA was a collective stand against authoritarianism, corruption and human rights abuses. In today’s political climate, misinformation spreads rapidly through social media and democratic institutions face continuous pressure. This is why commemorating EDSA is so critical to the cost of losing freedom. During martial law under Marcos Sr., thousands were arrested, tortured or simply disappeared. Remembering EDSA ensures that these sacrifices will never be erased or distorted.

Today, Philippine politics continues to grapple with issues such as corruption, historical revisionism, political divisions, false news and threats to press freedom. In recent years, there have been debates over the history of martial law and the legacy of the Marcos regime. This has sparked discussions about truth and the role of history in shaping our national identity.

Commemorating EDSA is also relevant because it serves as a reminder to the Filipino people of the cost of authoritarian rule and the importance of safeguarding our democratic institutions. The EDSA People Power Revolution proved that the Filipino people can unite across political, religious and social divisions for a common cause.

Furthermore, EDSA underscores the value of civic participation. Democracy is not sustained by election alone. It requires active citizenship, vigilance and citizen engagement. Issues such as extrajudicial killing, attacks on journalists and political dynasties show us the need for a strong democracy.

The People Power Revolution holds global significance as a model for peaceful resistance. It inspired similar movements in other countries, like Poland and the Czech Republic that sought democratic reform without resorting to violence. Today, we see evidence of democratic backsliding even in traditionally democratic countries like the United States and Hungary. The EDSA Revolution continues to stand as proof that ordinary citizens can effect change through nonviolent action if the citizens stay united.

This 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution offers an opportunity for a meaningful, inclusive and historical commemoration. Rather than treating it as a mere holiday, Filipinos should commemorate it as a moment of national reflection and renewal.

A large portion of today’s Filipino youth were born after 1986. EDSA for them is already part of history, rather than a living experience. Commemorating the 40th anniversary provides an opportunity to educate the younger generation about civic duty and participation in nation-building. Schools, universities and community organizations can host forums, lectures and exhibits that will present factual accounts of martial law and the revolution. Survivors, historians, journalists and former youth leaders can be invited to share their personal experiences and perspectives. Personal testimonies can make the history more tangible and less abstract.

There are several lessons that the EDSA Revolution can teach us today. First, it demonstrated that radical change can be achieved without violence. Millions of Filipinos, including workers and businessmen, students and professionals, soldiers and civilians, priests, nuns and lay people gathered peacefully to demand change.

The Revolution also showed that ultimately, leaders are accountable to the people. In the current political landscape where issues of corruption, political dynasties and government reforms continue to shape national debates, EDSA serves as a reminder that sovereignty ultimately resides in the people.

The call for people to attend a rally to commemorate EDSA on Feb. 25 is being coordinated by Caritas. This is only fitting since it was then Jaime Cardinal Sin who first called over Radio Veritas for Filipinos to gather in EDSA to protect defecting soldiers – an act that demonstrated faith in peaceful civilian resistance.

Filipinos can honor the spirit of EDSA not only by remembering the past but by also actively working for a more just and participatory future. Finally, we should remember what former president Corazon Aquino once said, “The power of the people is greater than the people in power.” This is the essence of EDSA – true power lies not in weapons or political machinery but in the political will of the Filipino citizens.

EDSA40 statement

De La Salle Philippines joins the nation in commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the People Power Revolution. Guided by our Lasallian values of faith, service and communion, we reaffirm our commitment to truth, justice and active citizenship.

To give our school communities the opportunity to reflect on this historic moment and to actively participate in mobilization efforts, DLSP schools will suspend classes and work operations on Feb. 25, 2026.

EDSA remains a powerful reminder that democracy is safeguarded when Filipinos collectively stand for truth, justice and accountability. At a time when the significance of this historical moment is diminished by the instances of massive corruption, impunity and injustice, we remain steadfast in upholding its legacy of active citizenship.

Guided by our values of faith, service and communion, our schools will organize activities that honor the spirit of People Power and encourage our young people to be at the forefront of democratic engagement.

Signatories:

Edgar O. Chua, AFSC, president, De La Salle Philippines; Br. Edmundo L. Fernandez FSC, superintendent, De La Salle Philippines; Br. Jose Mari L. Jimenez FSC, president, De La Salle Brothers Inc.

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