The threat to our restored freedom and democracy

THIS week marks the commemoration of the EDSA People Power Revolution. I was born after this historic event, but history unfolds that this event demonstrated the Filipinos’ unity in the fight to restore our democracy and freedom.

As we commemorate the 35th year of this historic event in our country, it is imperative that we renew our commitment to the protection of our democracy so that nothing can take it away from us. But how do we guarantee our freedom and democracy if there exist atrocities, harassment, extortion and skillful manipulation of the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens imposed by organizations such as the communist terrorist group that wants to destroy our democracy and replace it with communism?

Over the years, we were too complacent that we were truly free. We did not notice that there was something that was tearing up our democracy. We must not be so complacent because this would put an end to our freedom and democracy and plunge us into the abyss of uncertainty under the communist terrorist group if we do not move to condemn and defeat them.

It is discouraging to see that despite the insurgency posed by the communist terrorist group, few of us consider them as a serious threat to our freedom and our democracy.

I am just wondering; under what other circumstances can people power be used? Does it mean simply toppling a dictator or a head of a state? As a democratic country, is it not possible to use people power to liberate our country from the organization that seeks to overthrow it? We have suffered enough! Can’t we use people power to stop terrorism, communism and insurrection in our country?

While we commemorate the EDSA Revolution, I hope that we can also reflect on the real threats to our democracy and freedom. We cannot allow our democracy restored during the EDSA People Power Revolution be suppressed once more.

Gab Daguio Baguio City GabDagz21@gmail.com