Cebu civic groups and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese are planning commemorative events for the 40th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power uprising, emphasizing the province’s historical opposition to authoritarian rule and the importance of remembering the revolution’s values.
Cebu Marks 40 Years Since People Power Revolution
The activities, organized through Sugboanong Pakigbisog Kontra Korapsyon (SuPaKK), a coalition of church and civil society groups, will involve a Holy Mass, synchronized church bell tolling, a march, and a musical performance. The commemoration is scheduled for February 25.
Cebu has a long history of anti-Marcos activism, dating back to the 1960s, with many Cebuanos among the first political prisoners during Martial Law.
The February 25 commemoration will begin with a Holy Mass at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño Pilgrim Center at 1:45 pm, followed by the tolling of church bells across all parishes at 3 pm. Representatives from four generations will speak, urging Filipinos and Cebuanos to remember the events of 1986.
Participants will then march to Plaza Independencia for a floral offering called “Panagtagbo,” distributing 1,000 rosaries and flowers. The day will conclude with “Yukbo: Ang Konsiyerto,” featuring performances by local musicians.
‘Memory over forgetfulness’
Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy urged Cebuanos to participate, stating that EDSA remains a core part of the Filipino moral identity – a demonstration of the power of conscience, prayer, and unity in rejecting dictatorship, corruption, and abuse of power without violence. He emphasized that joining the anniversary is a reaffirmation of the belief that truth, integrity, and human dignity matter.
Uy also warned that the freedoms restored by EDSA are still vulnerable, noting that corruption, poverty, and distrust in institutions persist. He stressed that freedom requires ongoing protection and that EDSA was “the beginning of a responsibility” to safeguard democracy.
The Archbishop highlighted the importance of passing on the memory and values of EDSA to future generations, stating, “Our children and young people are learning from what we choose to remember — or forget.”
Strictly non-partisan
Organizers emphasized that the commemoration will be strictly non-partisan, with no public officials taking the stage. Association of Consecrated Men of Cebu president Fr. Jose “Baggy” Bagadiong explained that visible political participation could discourage broader public support and undermine the cause’s credibility.
Free Legal Assistance Group (FLAG) president Jay Pujanes clarified that the event will focus on issues rather than personalities and will not include calls for specific officials to resign. He argued that focusing on structural problems and responsible voting is more effective than seeking quick fixes through resignations.
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