Remembering People Power Revolution

I was not yet born when the People Power Revolution in EDSA happened. Growing up, it was an abstract idea for me that something as huge as that transpired. I only heard about it on the news whenever it was a topic of discussion. My only foundational knowledge about it was because it was part of my Sibika at Kultura, HEKASI and Araling Panlipunan subjects during elementary and high school.

Truth be told, the most vivid scenario I can think of is the death of the then exiled Senator Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. when he got off from an aircraft, which led to the Filipinos’ people power movement.

But really, for people of my generation, we can only rely on the stories of those who lived through the revolution. We can only pick up lessons from their narrations of this monumental revolution that shaped the present state of life of the Filipinos. It symbolized the power of the people to peaceably protest which is a triumph of democracy over dictatorship. Filipinos were rooted towards their common cause to stop suppression and emphasize that every Filipino has a voice.

And if there’s one key to learning that struck me the most, it would be the people’s power. I was amazed with how the power of the people coming together with one cause can change an entire nation, how people brushed off and set aside their differences to unite for their common purpose. It honestly made me think, “possible pala?”.

I believe that the revolution was not the end but only the beginning. And it is our generation’s turn to take the front seat in continuing the legacy that was once fought for. Only now, there are additional challenges to hurdle.

There’s the proliferation of fake news which divides the youth to different perspectives based on false information. Also, these topics are now seldom taught in schools. In effect, students are not aware of the country’s history, how we came to be where we are now, and the events in between

which include the EDSA People Power Revolution.

Additionally, in this era of fast-paced, technology-driven and digitized communities, it seems like February 25 is just another day to which people look forward to their rest day or for the additional 30% on their regular wage. To some, it may no longer hold the same emotional weight it once did.

 

There are many factors to overcome, to be honest. It might be a challenging journey but here are three (3) actions which, I think, can help us keep the fire burning:

 

1. Verify all information that you read online.

If you see any article or watch any video online, make sure that the source and information is reliable and accurate before sharing them. This way, we will not be an accomplice to more people learning the wrong information.

 

2. Find time to read about the Philippines’ rich history and culture.

Learning where we came from and how we came to be is an essential step before we take part in contributing to our country’s future. Read history books or articles or watch related documentaries because in order to continue the legacy of the People Power Revolution, learning should never stop.

 

3. Always exercise your right to vote and do it wisely.

Be critical in choosing the people you will elect to serve the public. This is another essential step to keep the People Power’s fire burning because ideologies and principles which will only bring us back to where we were before will put the efforts of those who endured the revolution in vain.

 

It’s hard, I know, and I agree. But it is not impossible. It is now up to our generation to finish what they have started. Let us not erase this part of our history and immortalize their efforts and sacrifices to bring us to where we are today. LET’S REIGNITE THE PEOPLE’S POWER.