Navigating the Legacy: How Philippine Schools Reflect on EDSA Revolution’s Enduring Impact

MANILA, Philippines — The 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, saw a stark contrast in how the event was observed.while the government declared it a special working day, many schools across the Philippines suspended classes, underscoring the enduring importance of the revolution in the national consciousness.

This decision by numerous educational institutions to close for the day reflects the deep resonance the spontaneous uprising, a pivotal moment in Philippine history that ousted Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1986, continues to hold within the community. The closures allowed students and faculty to participate in commemorative events or reflect on the ancient event’s impact.

Among the institutions that closed their doors on February 25 were Adamson University; all schools within the apostolic Vicariate of Calapan Parochial schools system; the Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae-Philippines Schools network, encompassing Maryhill School of Theology, Saint Louis Collage-Cebu, Saint louis College-San Fernando City, Saint Louis University, Saint Mary’s university, and the University of Saint Louis; all schools within the De La Salle Philippines system; General de Jesus College; Immaculate Conception Academy Greenhills; Imus Institute; the Kalookan Diocese Schools Association, including De La Salle Araneta University, Immaculate conception Academy of Malabon, La consolacion college Caloocan, Notre dame of Greater Manila, San Jose Academy, St. Gabriel Academy, St. James Academy, and St. Mary’s Academy; Saint Pedro Poveda College; St. bridget College Batangas City; St. Joseph’s College (Quezon City and Rodriguez); St. Scholastica’s Academy Pampanga; St.Scholastica’s College Manila; University of Santo Tomas; University of the East (Manila and caloocan); and Xavier School San Juan.

The closure of these institutions, representing a wide range of educational levels and locations, highlights the widespread recognition of the EDSA Revolution’s meaning. The decision to suspend classes allowed students and faculty to participate in commemorative events or reflect on the historical event’s impact. Other schools, while not closing entirely, implemented optional learning modes or encouraged participation in EDSA People Power anniversary activities, demonstrating a commitment to acknowledging the historical event while maintaining educational continuity.

The contrasting approaches taken by the government and various educational institutions underscore the ongoing debate surrounding the interpretation and commemoration of the EDSA People Power Revolution. The differing perspectives highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of Philippine history and its continuing relevance in contemporary society.

Headline:

Unveiling Legacy and Learning: How Philippine Schools Honour teh EDSA Revolution’s Enduring Influence

Opening Statement:

From classrooms to commemorative rallies, the EDSA Revolution continues to cast a profound shadow over Philippine education and culture.But what makes this historical event so integral to the national consciousness today?

Interview Between Senior Editor of World-Today-News.com and Dr. elena Villanueva, Expert on Philippine History and Education

Editor:

Dr. Villanueva, thank you for joining us today. The 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution sparked varied responses across the philippines. Could you explain why this historical event maintains such a significant presence in contemporary society and education?

Dr. Villanueva:

Certainly, the EDSA Revolution isn’t just a chapter in history books; it is a living memory that resonates deeply within the fabric of Philippine society. At its core, the uprising in 1986 epitomized peaceful defiance against authoritarian rule, catalyzing democratic ideals that continue to inspire Filipinos today. Educational institutions upholding this legacy through closures or special programs underscores the collective value placed on civic awareness and historical consciousness.By allowing students and faculty to participate in commemorative events, schools foster a sense of national identity and an understanding of democratic evolution.

Editor:

that’s fascinating. Given the diverse range of institutions that commemorated the event by suspending classes, what might this suggest about the collective identity and values of these schools and their communities?

Dr. Villanueva:

The breadth of educational institutions participating—from public to private,covering primary to tertiary levels—highlights a unified recognition of the EDSA Revolution’s importance.It reflects a shared commitment to civic education, emphasizing the power of non-violent protest and the role of collective action in shaping national narratives. Schools like Adamson University and University of santo Tomas serve as beacons for in-depth discussions on governance and social justice, integrating historical reflection into their educational missions. This collective decision symbolizes an ongoing dialog about freedom and democracy, molding future generations who are well-versed in their heritage and rights.

Editor:

Do you think the choice by various schools to encourage participation in anniversary activities, while maintaining educational continuity through optional learning modes, tells us something about contemporary educational approaches and priorities?

Dr. Villanueva:

Absolutely. This balanced approach illustrates an adaptive and inclusive educational strategy.By offering optional learning modes, schools demonstrate adaptability and a commitment to continuous education, even amid national reflections. This method respects diverse student and faculty needs, fostering an environment where education and commemoration can coexist. Additionally, it underscores evolving pedagogical priorities that value experiential learning and historical engagement—key components in developing critical-thinking citizens equipped for active participation in democratic processes.

Key Insights on the EDSA Revolution’s educational Impact:

• Civic Education: Educational institutions use the EDSA anniversary as a platform to deepen understanding of civic values and democratic processes.
• Shared Historical Identity: The wide recognition across diverse schools indicates a unifying national identity centered on the principles of the Revolution.
• Adaptive Learning: incorporating optional learning modes highlights progressive educational strategies that balance continuity with reflective pauses.

Editor:

With the government declaring this day a special working day, yet educational institutions choosing to commemorate differently, what does this reveal about the complexities in interpreting and honoring historical events?

Dr. Villanueva:

This contrast illustrates the multifaceted nature of historical memory and its interpretation. While the government may view certain historical anniversaries through a lens of official functioning, educational and community perspectives often prioritize reflection and commemoration. such disparities highlight the ongoing dialogue about history’s role in shaping current policies and communal values. The divergence offers a unique lens into the varied approaches towards remembering events that have deeply impacted the national psyche, inviting continual reevaluation and discourse about how we collectively acknowledge our past.

Final Thoughts:

Dr. Villanueva,your insights have painted a vivid picture of how the legacy of the EDSA Revolution continues to educate and inspire across generations. As we reflect on these shared historical narratives, what would you suggest for engaging today’s youth in the values and lessons of the EDSA Revolution?

Dr.Villanueva:

To truly engage the youth, it is crucial to integrate interactive and relatable educational methods that connect historical events to present-day issues. Encouraging active participation in discussions,debates,and community projects rooted in democratic principles can make these lessons tangible. Empowering young people by linking past revolutions to ongoing social movements can also inspire them to become agents of change within their communities. Ultimately, fostering a culture of critical thought and civic engagement ensures that the legacy of the EDSA Revolution continues to thrive among future generations.

Engagement Prompt:

Reflect on how institutions can effectively engage today’s youth in the democratic values exemplified by the EDSA Revolution. Share your thoughts in the comments below or continue the conversation on social media using #EDSARevolutionLegacy.