Senator Risa Hontiveros joined the nationwide commemoration of the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, pointing out that the journey toward a corruption-free government and a prosperous country is still far from over.
"Tandaan natin na kahit natanggal ang diktador noong 1986, hindi pa rin tapos ang laban para sa malinis na gobyerno at maunlad na bayan. Buhay na buhay pa rin ang korapsyon, cronyism at pamamayagpag ng oligarkiya sa lipunan. Naghihirap pa rin ang marami sa maliit na sweldo, mataas na presyo ng bilihin at kulang na pabahay," Hontiveros said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.
"Nariyan pa rin ang pang-aabuso sa kapangyarihan, ang kawalan ng hustisya at ng pagkakapantay-pantay," she added.
She further remarked that fulfilling the promises of the EDSA People Power Revolution still requires considerable effort from the people.
However, she asserted that, as demonstrated to the world in the past, nothing is beyond reach when the people are united in action.
The senator recalled that during the EDSA People Power Revolution, she was just 20 years old when she joined millions of Filipinos at EDSA in 1986 to raise their voices, end a two-decade dictatorship, and fight for democracy, human rights, dignity, and a better future.
"That is why I am immensely happy and proud to see that our students, teachers, schools, universities and youth organizations are taking the lead in commemorating this year’s EDSA People Power Revolution, even without a state holiday," Hontiveros said.
In an earlier announcement, February 25, 2025, was designated a Special (Working) Day, prompting various schools and universities to suspend classes to mark the historical occasion.
"Kaya kahit ilang holiday pa ang icancel ng Malakanyang, mananatiling buhay ang diwa at mensahe ng People Power - lalo na sa kabataang Pilipino na naninindigan at nagsasalita para sa kalayaan, hustisya at sama-samang pagasenso," said Hontiveros.
"We should take inspiration from the courage of our young kababayans, and never be cowed into fear and inactivity," she added.
She then encouraged the public to speak truth to power, combat disinformation and historical distortion, and persist in opposing the corruption, violence, and power-hungry behavior of those meant to serve the nation.
The senator urged the public not to grow tired, lose hope, or be afraid to fight for what is right, especially now as the Marcos and Duterte factions clash, both aiming to control the country.
"Now more than ever, we must not stay silent," she added.
Former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. signed Presidential Proclamation No. 1081, declaring Martial Law in the Philippines in response to the purported communist insurgency.
