About the EDSA Revolution Holiday in the Philippines

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EDSA People Power holiday, named after Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), where it occurred in Metro Manila, marks a pivotal moment in Philippines history. This week-long commemoration, held annually in late February, celebrates the peaceful demonstrations that led to the end of Ferdinand Marcos' 20-year authoritarian regime in 1986.

The EDSA People Power Revolution, also known as the Yellow Revolution with its yellow ribbons adorning the protests, advocated for unity and peaceful resistance against government corruption, human rights abuses, and electoral fraud, culminating in four days of non-violent demonstrations from February 22 to 25, 1986.

The revolution was a watershed moment in Philippine history, leading to the fall of Marcos and the restoration of democratic governance under President Corazon Aquino, the first female president in Asia. Aquino's rise to power received help, thanks to her late husband, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., a prominent Marcos critic whose assassination in 1983 galvanized the opposition.

During EDSA People Power Commemoration Week, various activities nationwide honor the courage and unity of the millions of Filipinos who participated in the revolution. These events include memorial ceremonies, educational discussions in schools and universities, and exhibits that showcase the historical significance of the revolution.

The commemoration is a time to reflect on the past and consider the ongoing challenges in protecting democracy and human rights in the Philippines. It serves as a reminder of the power of peaceful protest and the importance of civic engagement in shaping the nation's future.

In recent years, the EDSA People Power Commemoration Week has taken on additional significance amidst contemporary political and social challenges in the Philippines. Debates around historical revisionism, particularly concerning the Marcos era, and discussions about the current state of democracy and governance are often at the forefront during this week.

In summary, the EDSA People Power Commemoration holiday is a national holiday in the Philippines, celebrating a defining moment in the nation's pursuit of democracy. It honors the peaceful uprising that overthrew a dictator and serves as an enduring symbol of the power of collective action and the importance of safeguarding democratic values.