I asked a few of my friends what comes into their minds first when they think of the revolution and here's what they had to say:
"I think of Positive Change. People actually care, not only for those who are important to them, but also for the entire nation. Edsa is about the spirit of Patriotism in every Filipino. If only we could have that everyday. And if only we could really care, then there really is a chance that we will prosper as a nation." - Marmie Dyan Deniega, 22.
"It reminds me of the phrase "Vox populi, vox dei" Which means 'the voice of the people is the voice of God." - Chucky Palang, 23.
"To be honest that first thing that comes to mind is that it's a holiday. It may appear like a joke, but it is the most honest answer you'll ever get. Because in today's society, what people check first at the start of the month is if there are holidays so they can rest, or at least get double pay." - Missy Evanoso, 24.
"it made a way for our country to have a democratic government." - Steven Tumbaga, 22.
As somebody who was born nearly a decade after People Power, I too can only rely on video clips, essays, and chapter summaries that point to how it all went down.
But one thing I will take from the entire legendary affair is this: It will always be important to uphold the traditional means of taking part in an advocacy. For legitimate change to be realized, one must step out of his own home and physically and proactively do what it takes for a difference to take place.
People can post and share and like all they want on social media, but unless petitions are signed and protests are held, not much will change.
Can you just imagine what it would be like if, 29 years ago, our parents,and uncles, and aunts, and grandparents chose not to show up and be part of the People Power? What if they just stayed home and gave in to dictatorship?
The hashtags you so conveniently type in, and the selfies you so guiltlessly take wouldn't even be an option for you right now.
EDSA to me is about choosing to be part of change by going beyond social media. That, of course, is a personal conviction.
What is EDSA to you? Post your ideas or experience in the comment section below. Mag iSTORYA ta.
Bjorn Tabanera
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