Written by  Anna Lorraine Montero

EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary 

Sun, Feb 25, 2024

The People Power Revolution, also known as the EDSA Revolution or the February Revolution, was a series of popular demonstrations in the Philippines mostly in Metro Manila, from February 22 to 25, 1986. There was a sustained campaign of civil resistance against regime violence and electoral fraud. The nonviolent revolution led to the departure of Ferdinand Marcos, the end of his 20-year dictatorship, and the restoration of democracy in the Philippines.

It is also referred to as the Yellow Revolution due to the presence of yellow ribbons during demonstrations, the song "Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” as a symbol of protest following the assassination of Filipino senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Jr. in August 1983 upon his return to the Philippines from exile. It was widely seen as a victory of the people against two decades of presidential rule by President Marcos, and made news headlines as "the revolution that surprised the world".

One lesson we learned from 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution is that a revolution doesn't have to be characterized by violence. In spite of the threatening presence of the military forces in EDSA, not a single shot was fired against the civilians.

Throughout the three days of the revolution, not once did the people take up arms or cause widespread panic to achieve their goal. Solidarity, kindness, and a sincere adherence to a common endeavor were our people's weapons of choice, and despite the absence of force, they succeeded in achieving the liberty that had long been due. #EDSA32 #EDSAPeoplePower #LakasSambayanan

Flyby of air assets and confetti drop as added attractions during the anniversary celebration of the EDSA People  Power Revolution.