ERASED? The more that EDSA lessons are raised 

The non-declaration of February 25 as a holiday will not have a significant or positive impact on the economy and worker conditions, according to Malacañang. Some sectors have suggested “historical revisionism” (this time better than the term “distortions”) as one of the reasons why the anniversary was removed from the list of holidays. There are indeed many holidays that do not have a big impact on the economy but are still declared as non-working holidays. Hence, the administration’s decision to remove the EDSA People Power Revolution from that list has been controversial.

In hindsight, other holidays are not as critical to the economy but remain in the list. Examples are days of the saints or local festivals, which often have related traditions and celebrations in the communities but also do not always have a great impact on the national economy.

The issue here is not just the socioeconomic impact, but the symbolism of EDSA in Philippine history. For many, the EDSA revolution was not just an ordinary event with “minimal impact,” but a historic moment that opened a new era for democracy in the country.

Some schools have expressed concern that eliminating the holiday could cause “historical amnesia” or a loss of interest in important events in the nation’s history. Among organizations such as students and teachers, there are calls to still pursue activities that will raise awareness about the EDSA revolt, even though it is not an official holiday.

Some have continued programs, discussions, and activities that promote the history of EDSA. For them, People Power 1 must still be celebrated with events such as forums, lectures, and cultural presentations to remind the importance of it in the country’s democracy. Although the holiday status of February 25 has been removed, there are still initiatives from universities to celebrate and promote the history of EDSA.

Other academic institutions—the latest is that even local government units have joined the fray—have decided to have no on-site classes on February 25, even though it is not a declared holiday. These universities continued their initiatives to commemorate the four-day uprising on EDSA and other parts of the country, to appreciate this historical event and the ideals of democracy and unity.

In this way, universities have chosen to respect and celebrate the historical significance of EDSA, even though it no longer has official holiday status. They show that not only the government or official holidays can honor important historical events, but also academic institutions that aim to educate and spread awareness among young people and communities.

This is a good example of the active participation of universities in enriching the country’s history and culture.

Ine-erase? Lalong na-raise

Yes, it seems so—if the purpose of the decision was to reduce the noise or lighten the anniversary, this issue would have been raised even more throughout the country. Instead of being forgotten, it seems that what happened was that the EDSA People Power Revolution was given more attention, so it became a focal point of discussions and opposition from different sectors.

When such decisions are made, there are more questions and debates, and the result can be the opposite of what was expected. In this case, the removal of holiday status was not only controversial but also led to a deeper examination of how we celebrate and value historical events. So despite the changes, it still does not seem to be “forgettable” but continues to be a matter that reminds us of our history, which equally matters to Filipinos here and abroad.

This issue has even fueled more discussions on historical revisionism so that matters of appreciation for EDSA and how it should be taught and celebrated to future generations have become more lively. In a way, it seems to be an opportunity to strengthen the remembrance of EDSA sans a holiday.

The “platform” of UniTeam in the 2022 elections, led by Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte, focused on the themes of unity, cooperation, and rebuilding the country. It is a symbol of unity and having a common goal despite differences. So when the holiday status of February 25, which is a deep symbol of the unity of Filipinos through the EDSA People Power Revolution, is removed, it seems like a contradiction to what they are fighting for in their platform. EDSA is a day of collective action of Southeast Asia people against an unjust rule—a symbol of democracy and freedom.

Had authorities consulted all sectors—especially those who experienced that historic event—there would have been a good chance they would want to continue the EDSA tradition. It is not just a holiday; it is a day of appreciation for the principles of a free country and those who advocated for it.

The Marcos Jr.-led decision did not have enough consultation with people and sectors that have a great connection with the history of EDSA. Sometimes, decisions like this can cause confusion and misunderstanding, especially if the reasons behind the decision are not properly explained and the sectors that have an interest in the issue are not consulted.

In the end, the issue of unity seems to have intensified—not in the way expected.

Many refer to EDSA as a victory, but the lessons and “small battles” of it are still felt today. Its struggle did not end with the overthrow of the dictatorship. Rather, it merely marked a new phase of reflection and pursuit of real social change. In this view, the fight should not be considered over, as many other aspects of history and society continue to require resistance.

EDSA’s spirit began when a people stood up against a repressive government, but some question whether the country has achieved the true goal of EDSA—a society of caring, justice, and equality. While EDSA provided hope and opportunity, societal problems such as poverty, corruption, and inequality continue to be experienced today.

Therefore, some other Filipinos articulate that the fight of EDSA is not over, and it is still being promoted in various ways from education and reforms to steps for real development.

Philippine history is indeed full of complications and behaviors that are difficult to understand, especially in recent years. The return of a Marcos to Malacañang, after the events of EDSA, is a big part of the ongoing debate about how the country’s history and the legacies of previous administrations should be treated.

The matter of having a Marcos at the top of the government seems to be two-fold—some people believe it is a natural result of democracy and free elections, but some critics say it continues to reflect both historical revisionism and distortions. Hopefully, with all the important events in our history, we learn not to forget its lessons, and continue to use them to guide our decisions in the present. The defense and appreciation of democracy and unity, demonstrated by Filipinos in EDSA, will continue to shape our decisions in the future.

It seems like our society goes through a cycle of regression and progress—but, despite that, the fight for change and unity continues to deserve attention. Hence the question “Marcos pa rin?” serves as a reminder that the EDSA fight is not over and that many aspects of our society continue to need review and change.

Our history is indeed complicated, but it is still important not to forget it.

The history of EDSA, which sought to overthrow a dictatorship and the sacrifices of the people to free the country from tyrannical rule, seems to be receding in the face of the continued rise of families with powerful political influence. This is not just a matter of recalling history, but an ongoing challenge to our citizens and leaders to continue focusing on the principles of democracy and genuine transformation.

In other words, it seems like a cruel irony that despite the existence of an anti-dynasty provision and reform objectives in the Constitution, political dynasties continue to grow stronger. Real political reform and removing the influence of dynasties is still a big fight that needs to be continued by civil society, academe, and the media. It is also a reminder that the “magbago na” fight—which was led in 1986 on EDSA—does not end but continues to require the active participation and vigilance of every Filipino.

Marcos Jr. and Sara are in place—nandiyan na ‘yan. Let us therefore keep on communicating.

Can they help the people in pushing unity towards development if the two themselves are now deeply in political conflict? Let us also include their trampling in the spirit of EDSA. It is difficult to answer directly whether they can help the people in unity and development if those in office have terrible conflicts. Looking at the situation of the President and VP, their relationship seems to be full of tensions, not only in their personal relationship but also in politics related to the parties they represent.

There are convincing indications of separation in views and actions that may cause an intensely divided political outlook. For example, the measures implemented by BBM may have different interests from the measures enjoyed by Sara, and this can be seen in major policy issues, pronouncements, and priorities. When this kind of defeat or disagreement becomes an obstacle to cooperation, the unity of the country can lose focus, and we commonly call it as looking for a stone to beat on one’s own head (batong pamukpok sa sariling ulo).

Because of this, it can be a challenge for them to show true unity under their leadership, especially since they also have difficulties and conflicts within their own political structures and families. Political rivalry within their own administration and families can cause discord, and this can be a hindrance to the unity and development that people hope for.

Defying the spirit of EDSA—such as the abolished holiday status of February 25 and the continued dominance of political dynasties—can cause wounds to public trust, causing deeper disunity. If EDSA principles such as democracy, equality, and unity are not given enough value, it may be difficult for the nation to work together and succeed against the real challenges of the present.

What is the solution?

For true unity and progress, true cooperation is needed from leaders, from the highest positions to the lowest levels of government. If the political conflict continues, they need to focus on settling their internal conflicts and promoting order for the people’s interest, not just the personal gain or interest of their family or party.

Education and analysis of the history of EDSA will help leaders to convert to the true spirit of their duty as public servants and to strengthen the unity of the people amid their differences. Remembering and appreciating EDSA is an important step to promoting a more progressive country, with unity and concern for each other.

All in all, help and unity will come not only from the leaders but from each of us as citizens, and the history of EDSA will continue to serve as a guide for the next steps we take as a nation.

National unity is a deep theme that can also be related to God’s purposes, especially if we look at the principles of love, unity, and peace found in many religions, including Christianity. From the point of view of many faiths, the unity of people is considered as an important goal, related to our mission as God’s creatures. Unity is not only about being together, but also about building a community that works together and cares for each other. In a Christian perspective, for example, we are taught to unite and work together as brothers and sisters in the faith (1 Corinthians 1:10).

Thinking about it in the context of the Philippines, the unity of the people is a blessing given by God to join forces for the good of the country and each other. The ugly faces of divisions, conflicts, and misunderstandings can give way to our reflection and analysis of how we dis/allow God’s face to shine on us as He advances His purpose in our lives and our nation.

National unity and God’s purpose

His purpose concerns the unity of people and not division. This can be seen in the scriptures, such as teachings on charity, forgiveness, and caring for other people. In the principles of faith, it is taught that having unity is a manifestation of the right relationship with God and others. If we unite as a nation, we become God’s tools for a more just and peaceful society. Differences and conflicts, although natural to humans, can serve as opportunities for us to work together and succeed despite challenges.

In a higher perspective, the nation’s trials may not be considered rejection or punishment from God, but an opportunity to help us convert to our goals as His creatures—to cooperate, forgive, and promote justice and love. Sometimes, trials become a reminder that true unity and love are not always easy, but they are a witness to our faith and strength as a people.

The perception that “God is punishing Filipinos” may stem from people’s sense of inequality, evil, and misery. But in the view of many, God does not intend to punish His creatures but to teach and correct the path. Instead of punishing, He can provide opportunities and reflection so that we can work together and change.

Despite trials and conflicts, unity is an opportunity that God has fostered for us to change, work together, and succeed. Filipinos have a deep history of unity and cooperation—from the origins of our heroism and helping others, to historic moments like the EDSA Revolution, where each of us helped to achieve freedom.

Every crisis is an opportunity to return to the true spirit of unity and to join forces for the greater cause of peace, justice, and development. In the trials of our nation, our duty is to strive and work together to revive the spirit of unity—this is also a profound realization of God’s purposes for our community.

Sa kabuuan, ang pambansang pagkakaisa ay isang mahalagang bahagi ng layunin ng Diyos para sa ating bansa. Ang layunin ay hindi tungkol sa pagpaparusa kundi sa pagtutulungan at pagninilay sa ating misyon bilang mga nilalang Niya. Sa kabila ng mga pagsubok, ang pagkakaisa ay patuloy na isang paraan upang mapalakas ang ating bansa at magtagumpay sa mga hamon ng buhay, upang maging isang mas makatarungan, mapayapa, at maunlad na lipunan.

(In sum, national unity is an important part of God’s purpose for our country. That purpose is not about punishment but about working together and reflecting on our mission as His creation. Despite the trials, unity continues to be a way to strengthen our country and overcome life’s challenges to become a more just, peaceful, and prosperous society.)