On the 25th of February each year, the Philippines marks the anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. This momentous occasion represents the restoration of democracy in the Philippines after the dark period of the Marcos Regime.
Although many Millennials and Gen Zs were not yet born during this historic event, it remains relevant to this day. As responsible citizens, it is crucial for all Filipinos to understand the significance of what took place during that time and how it continues to impact our country today. Let us take the time to educate ourselves about this crucial moment in our history and reflect on how we can make sense of it in the present.
But before that, here is a music video of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution in the Philippines by Virna Lisa:
The 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution in the Philippines Theme Song: Magkaisa
“Magkaisa” is a Filipino song composed by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab with lyrics by Jose Javier Reyes. It was first performed by the popular singer and actress Virna Lisa during the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, which saw the overthrow of the Marcos regime in the Philippines.
The song’s title “Magkaisa” means “unite” in English, and it is a call for the Filipino people to come together as one and work towards a common goal. The lyrics convey a message of hope and unity, emphasizing the importance of standing together and supporting each other through difficult times.
With its uplifting melody and powerful lyrics, “Magkaisa” quickly became an anthem for the Filipino people during the EDSA Revolution and continues to be a symbol of hope and unity for the country. It is often performed during patriotic events and has become an enduring part of Filipino culture.
As someone who is passionate about documentaries, I have curated a selection of seven insightful films that delve into the intricacies of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution. These documentaries, which I discovered online, offer a wealth of information and perspectives on this historic event.
EDSA 20 ‘ISANG LARAWAN’ (2016)
This informative 50-minute documentary was brought to you by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, a prominent national newspaper network in the Philippines.
According to the description provided on YouTube, this documentary was specially produced in 2006 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. The documentary features fresh perspectives from voices that were previously unheard of, offering unique insights into this historic event.
EDSA 30 (2016)
This 20-minute documentary serves as a continuation of Inquirer.Net’s previous EDSA 20 documentary.
COUP D’ETAT: THE PHILIPPINES REVOLT 1986 (2017)
This documentary, spanning an hour in length, was brought to life by an Australian television network. It offers a vivid depiction of the four-day nonviolent military uprising that led to the removal of President Ferdinand Marcos from power in the Philippines. Through insightful narration, the documentary sheds light on the people who participated in the revolution, and the reasons behind its ultimate success. Its valuable commentary helps to provide a comprehensive understanding of this significant event in Philippine history.
1986 PEOPLE POWER EDSA HISTORY (2013)
In 2013, the Philippine Department of National Defense created a concise 25-minute documentary.
BIYAHENG EDSA (2006)
This half-hour documentary was created by GMA News and Public Affairs, a prominent national TV network based in the Philippines. The program follows broadcast journalist Howie Severino as he journeys along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue, commonly referred to as EDSA, to delve into the transformations that have taken place in the Philippines over the two decades since the People Power Revolution. Originally aired in February 2006, this compelling documentary is being re-shared online in anticipation of the upcoming 25th Anniversary of People Power, taking place from February 21 to 25, 2011.
BATAS MILITAR (1997)
The Foundation for Worldwide People Power (FWWPP) produced a 2-hour documentary that sheds light on one of the darkest moments in Philippine history. This acclaimed film covers the period when the entire nation endured the ruthless oppression of the Marcos authoritarian regime. The FWWPP, which also produced the widely praised “Beyond Conspiracy: 25 Years after the Aquino Assassination,” presents this compelling documentary to give a voice to those who suffered under the oppressive regime.
In conclusion, the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution in the Philippines remains an important and significant event in the country’s history. Despite the fact that many of today’s Millennials and Gen Zs were not yet born during this time, it still holds relevance to the present day. As responsible citizens, it is our duty to educate ourselves on this pivotal moment in our history and to reflect on how it continues to impact our society today. By doing so, we can unite as a nation and work towards a brighter future that upholds the values of democracy and unity. Let us remember and honor the bravery of those who fought for our freedoms during the EDSA Revolution, and strive towards building a better Philippines for generations to come.
I am lucky to have witnessed the EDSA revolution when I was on my second year high school in Tondo. Though I am not physically present, the feelings are intense that time. I remember those videos and photos. Thank you for comemorating that special event.
I was with the UP Manila contingent in EDSA at that time. I don’t remember, which day it was. I remember there was no tension so we were able to sleep, but the nice thing then was we woke up to the sound of Walk of Life by the Dire Straits, a blues-rock song with a good-vibe riff for an intro. It must have been 5 or 6 in the morning. The sun was already up and I saw Prof. Randy David nearby sweeping to keep the area clean.
We were better than those in Woodstock in that regard
I was with the UP Manila contingent in EDSA at that time. I don’t remember, which day it was. I remember there was no tension so we were able to sleep, but the nice thing then was we woke up to the sound of Walk of Life by the Dire Straits, a blues-rock song with a good-vibe riff for an intro. It must have been 5 or 6 in the morning. The sun was already up and I saw Prof. Randy David nearby sweeping to keep the area clean.
We were better than those in Woodstock in that regard
February 1986, I was 15 turning 16 years old, a graduating HS student of Rizal High School Pasig. It was a mixed emotion, sad and worried because graduation rites might be postponed or cancelled. Our family was listening to Radio Veritas, I personally and actually heard all the happenings in EDSA. Those documentaries are legit. I salute to all the people who responded for their bravery and courage. At home, we joined by praying the rosary, with the intention to… bless all the people in EDSA, to justice be revived. Praying that no one will be hurt and die. Being a Legion of Mary, I tearfully prayed that Mama Mary will intercede to end the injustice and corruption of Marcos government. I hope that our Filipino youth will not be corrupted by false narratives of the Marcos funded fake historians to distort this momentous historical event that made every Filipino proud. The bloodless revolution that overthrown a corrupt dictator.