EDSA:
More Than Just a Busy Street by Jacob de Jesus
Rotaract Club of RCDM Scholars
Apart from being one of the most well-known busy streets in the Metro, the Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (or famously known as EDSA) lies a very substantial historical root dating back from the 1900s. Being more than just a public highway, it is an embodiment of four momentous days of commendable courage and pride among the Filipinos[1]. Now in commemoration of its 35th anniversary, revisiting EDSA People Power Revolution is essential in awakening the spirit of people in forming solidarity against any appalling regime—one that may be needed to counter the current oppressive forces.
Being a symbol of coming together, on the 20th of February of the same year, the four-day revolution was a trigger that started from a clear electoral fraud. However, despite Marcos having to snap the election results, he was able to retain his authority in the national government. This has led some government officials, ministers, and the Catholic Church to urge a call for his removal from office. People from all over the country started to join mass protests to remove the subjugating powers of the tyrant— “a nation wrestling itself back from a dictator,” as described[1].
The remarkable event on the 25th of February 1986 has contributed a large portion in the country’s rich history. Millions of Filipinos from all walks of life had managed to govern a revolt yearning to overthrow the dictatorial administration of former president Ferdinand E. Marcos. More than just forming solidarity, people who participated in the national march along EDSA had shown exemplary courage and determination in reclaiming liberty, one that has been taken away since the reign of the totalitarian rule[2]. It has staged series of political protests and demonstrations, hoping to reveal the dissent and discontent of the general populace, whether nonconformists or not[1][2].
In a nutshell, this notable moment has shaped our culture and became a significant contribution across the borders, being an archetype for political change without violence[3]. Now, as we inch closer to celebrating its 35th anniversary, may history serve as a wake-up call that even after People Power, we still need to work in unity toward the change we desire. Especially now that we are under a sickening administration, may we be reminded that we have the capacity of ceasing powers of officials who do not aim for the common good. As manifested by the upheaval, change does not come as presidents change[3].
[1]Official Gazette. (n.d.). A history of the Philippine political protest. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/the-ph-protest/ [2]Official Gazette. (n.d.). 30th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/edsa/ [3]Rojas II, J.F. (2018). Why it’s important to remember Edsa. Business Mirror. https://businessmirror.com.ph/2018/02/25/whyits-important-to-remember-edsa/
