PEOPLE-POWER-I-WPS-Office

PEOPLE POWER I AND EDSA REVOLUTION
People Power is the idea that ordinary people, when united, can stand up against unfair and oppressive
governments. This was clearly shown during the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986, when Filipinos
peacefully overthrew President Ferdinand Marcos. On February 25, 1986, the Philippines witnessed a
historic event that not only changed the country but also inspired the world. The revolution showed that
people could bring about change without using violence, relying instead on unity and peaceful protest.
The EDSA People Power Revolution is one of the best examples of non-violent resistance. From February
22 to 25, 1986, Filipinos gathered at Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Metro Manila to demand
Marcos’ removal. What made this revolution special was that it was bloodless. The people stood up
against a dictator without violence, believing in democracy and their right to freedom. This peaceful
protest became a symbol of the power of the people and inspired similar movements worldwide. The
revolution didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of years of oppression under Marcos. In 1972, he
declared Martial Law, giving him total control over the country. This led to the arrest of political
opponents, widespread human rights abuses, and economic struggles. Many Filipinos became frustrated
and began calling for change.
A key event that fueled the desire for change was the assassination of former Senator Benigno "Ninoy"
Aquino, Jr. on August 21, 1983. Aquino, who had been an outspoken critic of Marcos, returned to the
Philippines from exile, hoping to restore freedom. His murder sparked anger among Filipinos and united
them in their demand for justice and an end to Marcos' rule. In response to growing protests, Marcos
called for a snap presidential election on February 7, 1986. He faced Corazon Aquino, the widow of
Ninoy Aquino. However, the election was widely believed to be rigged, and this led to even more
protests. People flooded the streets, demanding Marcos’ resignation.
The revolution officially began when two high-ranking military officials, Juan Ponce Enrile and Fidel
Ramos, withdrew their support for Marcos and sought refuge in military camps. They were joined by
Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin, who called on Filipinos to gather at EDSA in support. Millions of Filipinos
answered the call and gathered peacefully to demand Marcos’ removal. Religious figures, including
nuns, even stood in front of military tanks, urging soldiers not to harm the protesters. This act of
courage helped to show the strength of the people’s movement.
With the support of the public, Marcos’ forces began to retreat, marking the end of his rule. On
February 25, 1986, Corazon Aquino was sworn in as the first female president of the Philippines,
signaling the restoration of democracy. The EDSA People Power Revolution showed that it was
possible to remove a dictator without violence, proving the power of peaceful protests.
The EDSA People Power Revolution showed the world that change is possible through peaceful means. It
proved that true power doesn’t come from weapons or violence, but from the people who stand
together for what is right. The revolution reminded us of the importance of democracy and how fragile
it can be. It taught us that we must always protect our freedom and rights, as they can be easily lost. It's
legacy continues to inspire people all over the world who are fighting for justice and freedom. It shows
that even in the darkest times, ordinary people have the power to make a difference. The revolution
remains a powerful reminder that through unity, peace, and courage, we can overcome any challenge
and build a better future.
LINKS;
https://youtu.be/6Sxf1udoVBw?si=BbBfv8D4nhhsJjA9
https://www.amnesty.org.ph/2022/07/protestph-edsa-revolution/
https://origins.osu.edu/milestones/people-power-revolution-philippines-1986
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/today-history-1986-people-power-revolution-philippines
https://youtu.be/6Sxf1udoVBw?si=BbBfv8D4nhhsJjA9

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PEOPLE POWER I AND EDSA REVOLUTION

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