March On, Filipinos: Together, We Are Strong
Thud, thud, thud, thud—that was once the rhythm of Filipinos readying for a brighter and stronger Philippines after the regime of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. However, even after its revolutionary protest, it seems that our nation has struggled to move on, and the fight still continues.
Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, better known as EDSA, is a road that is unmistakable to many Pinoys, as it is the place where an influx of cars converge to get around Metro Manila. Beyond its daily bustle, however, EDSA holds a profound historical significance as the site where Filipinos courageously marched against the injustices of the Marcos administration, sparking the movement that we know today as the EDSA People Power Revolution.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, when Filipinos collectively stood to fight against the abuses of officials and a dictator who stripped Filipinos of their basic human rights. Those four glorious days in February 1986 showed people all around the world how the power of unity, courage, and prayer toppled a dictatorship, inspiring other countries to stage their own revolutions against their repressive regimes. Yet, history seems to repeat itself, with Filipinos running back to that same road time and again whenever the nation faces a crisis, making it a familiar ground for protest and collective action. Today, the Philippines faces a different but familiar battle: massive floods, substandard infrastructure, and government leaders whose selfish ambitions overshadow their duty to the country. Adding to the déjà vu, the son of the very dictator whom the people once ousted has returned to the nation’s highest office and the daughter of another authoritarian ruler is preparing a bid for presidency.
The fight against corruption continues, and as more devastating realities come to light, many Filipinos are losing hope for this small yet incredibly rich archipelago. Nevertheless, the EDSA Revolution serves as a reminder that our people have—and can—unite to face the nation’s challenges.
Issues such as corruption, faulty government systems, and colonial mentality have been present since before. However, what makes the current Philippines different from the past is how its people chose to do something to resolve their nation’s concerns. The EDSA Revolution was never meant to be a one-time, big-time solution but an event that aimed to spread a sense of nationalism among Filipinos, initiate change in the country, and remind citizens of their power—it was always the beginning of another chapter for the Philippines, not the end of its journey. Thus, as we continue to face growing issues and hurdles for our country, it is only right that we continue the movement that was already started.
Yes, there is much that needs fixing. Still, by simply looking around and seeing the smiles, determination, and resilience that Filipinos carry, one begins to understand why our predecessors fought for the Philippines and why it remains worth fighting for today.
To our fellow citizens, let that small flicker of hope burn. May we all march forward and work toward a Philippines that everyone can proudly call home. While the challenges are daunting, together we have the strength, unity, and resolve to overcome all the threats to our hard-earned democracy.
Happy 40th anniversary to the day Filipinos showed their true courage and power. May we continue to stand for one another, for our rights, and for our country—not just today but for many years to come.
