Feb. 25 protest organizers to 鈥榬eignite spirit of democracy鈥�
Honor guards lead the wreath laying rites during the 38th anniversary of the Edsa People Power Revolution at the Edsa People Power Monument at the corner of Edsa and White Plains Avenue in Quezon City on Sunday, February 25, 2024. Inquirer file photo/Grig C. Montegrande
MANILA, Philippines — The Catholic Church will spearhead the Feb. 25 protests, which other organizers said aim not only to mark the 39th anniversary of the first People Power Revolution but also to hold accountable President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte for their alleged irresponsible use of public funds.
More students, teachers, and school personnel are expected to participate in the events as the national association of Catholic schools earlier urged other member institutions to suspend work and classes.
The Church Leaders Council for National Transformation (CLCNT), composed of different Christian religious denominations, also called on all Filipinos to unite in a mass gathering at the People Power Monument on Edsa “to reignite the spirit of democracy and accountability as the country faces continued challenges of corruption, economic hardship, and governance failures.”
“The fight against corruption is a moral imperative,” Caritas Philippines president and Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said in a statement.
READ: Over 70 groups to hold protest rally on Edsa anniversary
Article continues after this advertisement“We cannot remain silent while the country suffers from bad governance, corruption, and impunity. The people must take a stand and demand accountability,” he added.
Article continues after this advertisementAccording to the council, with the recent impeachment case against Duterte, the event will amplify public outcry for transparency, justice, and the responsible use of public funds.
3 key messages
Faith-based communities and advocacy groups are coming together to demand justice and reforms, with three key messages: Marcos Singilin! (Make Marcos Accountable!), Duterte Panagutin! (Hold Duterte Responsible!), and Sara I-Convict! (Convict Sara!)
“Edsa is a reminder that people’s power is real,” Bagaforo said. “It is time for us to reclaim that power and ensure that the values of democracy, justice, and good governance prevail in our nation.”
For Bishop Efraim Tendero, former national director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, it was important to “stand firm in our faith and in our duty to uphold truth and justice. The People Power spirit must live on through our collective actions for the nation’s transformation.”
Novaliches Bishop Roberto Gaa, meanwhile, emphasized the role of unity in effecting change: “Our faith calls us to stand together for what is right. Let us rekindle the flame of People Power and use it as a force to drive accountability and integrity in our government.”
Led by Bagaforo and Gaa, the CLCNT is a newly formed council of church leaders committed to advocating for good governance and national renewal.
It was officially established on Feb. 13 during a meeting of key leaders of different religious organizations in Intramuros, Manila. These are PCEC, National Council of Churches in the Philippines, the Roman Catholic Church (represented by the Episcopal Commission on Social Action-Justice and Peace and Caritas Philippines, Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines, Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), and Manila Ecclesiastical Province School Systems Association.
Other participating groups include the Clergy for Good Governance, Concerned Citizens for Good Governance, Tama Na alliance of universities led by De La Salle University, and other civic and advocacy groups.
Educate the youth
The CEAP-National Capital Region (NCR) urged the over 200 member institutions in Metro Manila to commemorate Feb. 25 and designate it as “a non-academic, non-working day” to highlight “the importance of this historical event and foster a deeper understanding of its lasting significance among the younger generation.”
“This designation affords students and educators the opportunity to actively participate in commemorative events, reflect upon the values upheld during the People Power Revolution, and pay homage to the sacrifices of those who struggled for the nation’s freedom,” it said in a statement.
It urged all member schools to organize meaningful activities to educate students about the first People Power Revolution, its causes, and its impact on Philippine society. These activities may include lectures, discussions, film screenings, exhibits, and community outreach programs.
“The People Power Revolution serves as a powerful reminder of the Filipino people’s patriotism, courage, and unity in the face of adversity,” CEAP-NCR said.
“By commemorating this historic event, CEAP-NCR seeks to instill in students a deep appreciation for their national heritage and inspire them to become responsible and engaged citizens who uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and human rights,” it added.
