Forty years have passed since the peaceful EDSA Revolution ousted Ferdinand E. Marcos. As the anniversary approaches, Filipinos revisit the landmarks and memories of that event amid doubts about current politics. It commemorates the courage and democratic spirit shown by the Filipino people.
On February 22, 1986, Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile and Lt. Gen. Fidel V. Ramos broke away from President Ferdinand E. Marcos's administration, sparking four days of peaceful protests along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA). Through Radio Veritas, Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin appealed to citizens to gather and bring food for soldiers at Camp Crame and Camp Aguinaldo. Thousands of Filipinos responded, blocking Marine tanks led by nuns singing 'Bayan Ko' and praying.
"What a question! Do you think I am that crazy to give such order and annihilate these freedom-loving people?" said Brigadier General Artemio Tadiar when asked about attacking. Philippine Air Force helicopters defected, and on February 25, the Marcos family fled to Hawaii. Corazon C. Aquino was sworn in as president at Club Filipino.
For the 40th anniversary in 2026, Rappler launched a series revisiting landmarks like EDSA Shrine, Ayala Avenue, and Malacañang, highlighting the revolution's lessons despite unfulfilled promises. Reflections warn against corruption and power abuse, linking history to current democratic challenges.
