The relevance of EDSA

Just this weekend, the whole country commemorated a very important historical event that happened more than 30 years ago. This was all about a “revolution” that was unique, especially in the eyes of other countries back then. Unlike other revolutions in history, this one happened without any bloodshed. And more importantly, it ended years of dictatorship under then president Ferdinand Marcos and paved the way for the restoration of democracy. A few decades after the EDSA revolution of 1986, is it still a relevant event and not just another holiday for Filipinos? These youngsters share what they think. Yes, I think Filipinos consider the anniversary of EDSA 1 as important and significant as the day it happened because it not only symbolizes the nation’s thirst for freedom but also the unity that the people had as they gathered as one. It is not only significant to us, but to other countries as well because it is one of the most peaceful and bloodless revolutions in history. CHRIS LLOYD DUNQUE, 19, ARCHITECTURE STUDENT (CIT-U) It’s a milestone in the history of the Philippines because it made Marcos step down from Malacanang. Even if some people consider Marcos a hero, it would not erase the fact that many Filipinos died and suffered during Martial Law. We should all be thankful the first EDSA revolution happened. CAROL JEAN ESCASINAS, 22, FASHION DESIGN STUDENT (USC) No. With all the recent issues happening in our government and country today, I think it is safe to say that the people are more focused on the present than on what happened in the past. The people might still remember what happened 31 years ago, but the issues right now make what happened before irrelevant. JORGE CHRISTIAN VILLAFLOR, 20, ARCHITECTURE STUDENT (USC)