Groups gear up for 40th EDSA People Power anniversary

By Juliane Judilla

Kahublagan Kontra Kurapsyon (KKK), a broad coalition of sectoral groups, civil society organizations, and concerned individuals advocating against corruption, announced its mobilization for the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on Feb. 25, during a press conference Thursday, Feb. 19.

The alliance emphasized that this year’s commemoration is not merely a ceremonial observance but a call for the broader public to strengthen their ranks in the face of ongoing governance issues.

Rev. Monsignor Meliton Oso, director of the Jaro Archdiocese Social Action Center (JASAC), highlighted the moral and civic dimensions of the mobilization, drawing inspiration from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) pastoral letter.

Monsignor Oso called on Filipinos to unite against corruption, political dynasties, and other forms of abuse.

“Nahimo naton sang una, mahimo naton subong!” (“What we did before, we can do again!”) he said, reminding citizens that the people’s collective power toppled a dictatorship decades ago — and that the same spirit remains vital today.

Representatives from the Roman Catholic Church will also take part, with all 86 dioceses nationwide expected to hold similar activities, and the Archdiocese of Jaro playing a central role.

Archbishop Midyphil Billones will preside over the Holy Mass at 4 p.m., reinforcing the Church’s support for the anti-corruption advocacy while encouraging prayerful reflection and peaceful demonstration.

Myrna Abad of the Commission on the Laity emphasized the need for active participation in governance and societal reforms, pointing to ongoing social and political challenges.

Elmer Forro of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) Panay stressed that the essence of EDSA lies in the unity of the people.

“EDSA is not just about individuals. The true spirit of EDSA lies in the unity of the people — the masses are EDSA,” he said, highlighting the grassroots character of the original movement.

On Feb. 25, participants in Iloilo are scheduled to gather at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol at 12:30 p.m. for the assembly, followed by a program featuring songs and speeches at 1 p.m.

A march to St. Clement’s Church is set for 1:45 p.m., with a novena and assembly at 2 p.m., before participants process to Jaro Plaza at 3 p.m.

The commemoration will culminate with a Holy Mass at 4 p.m. at Jaro Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop Billones.

Organizers encouraged attendees to wear white as a symbol of peace and unity and to invite others to join the commemoration.

The mobilization aims to combine prayer, civic engagement, and cultural remembrance, reflecting the original spirit of EDSA while addressing contemporary social issues.