25 years has passed after the historical non violent revolution that happened in the Philippines. On Friday, February 25, Filipinos are celebrating the 25th anniversary of EDSA Revolution. The term EDSA revolution was derived from the name of the main avenue where most of the non violent protest happened. EDSA Revolution is one of the peaceful revolution that happened in history. This prayerful mass revolution became an inspiration to many countries.
What makes Filipinos unite and decide to make a human barricade which is composed of more that 2 million people is their longing for the restoration of freedom that was said to be stolen by the dictatorship of then Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos.
Marcos won the presidential race during 1965 election against Diosdado Macapagal. In 1969, he was re-elected again as president defeating Sergio Osmena Jr. At this point in time, several Filipinos were already against his leadership. He was not allowed to run again for presidency for the the third time. On September 23, 1972, President Marcos declared Martial law (Proclamation number 1081) and his reason is rising civil disobedience. He suppresses liberty. He ordered arrest of his political opponents including then Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino. By imposing Martial law, President Marcos prolonged his stay in power.
Benigno Ninoy Aquino who was explicitly refused permission to return and was threatened by death was determined to set his foot back to the Philippines. On August 21, 1983, the brave Aquino was assassinated at the Manila International Airport which is now known as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. His assassination started a series of protests and rallies. President Marcos announced a presidential snap election( Batas Pambansa number 883). Ninoy's widow, Corazon Cojuanco Aquino was encouraged by opposition leaders to run for presidency. During the election, there were several reports that Marcos alllegedly interfere illegally with the election process. Despite all of these allegations, he was still proclaimed by the Commission on Election as President on February 15. 1986.
On February 22, 1986, Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile and AFP Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Fidel V. Ramos together with the Reformed The Armed Forces Movement (RAM), SFP and YOU (Young Officers Union) prepared to confront Marcos and his cronies.. Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin through Radio Veritas summoned every Filipinos to support the Rebel leaders by going to EDSA. Millions of Filipinos gathered at EDSA to show their support. Priest, nuns and civilian together formed a human chain to prevent government troops in full combat gear to come near the camps. Priests and nuns lead the prayer vigil holding in their hands their rosaries, civilians hold flowers which they offer to the government troops for peace. This scenario melted the heart of the soldiers, they retreated. The historical EDSA Revolution ended without bloodshed.
The will of the Filipinos to recover its democracy prevailed. Corazon Aquino was sworn in as President of the Philippines on February 25 and Marcos was exiled in Hawaii together with his family and his cronies.
What happened in EDSA 25 years ago made a lasting impact in the world. Let us all continue what we have started at EDSA. Let's continue in making the Philippines a unique nation.
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