Beyond EDSA: Other People Power Movements in the Philippines
The EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986 remains one of the most defining moments in Philippine history, a testament to the strength of collective action in the face of dictatorship. However, EDSA was not the only instance where Filipinos came together to demand change. Throughout the country’s history, various movements have demonstrated the power of the people in shaping national events.
1. EDSA Dos (2001): The Fall of Joseph Estrada
Just over a decade after the first EDSA revolution, Filipinos once again gathered at EDSA Shrine to demand the resignation of then-President Joseph “Erap” Estrada. The movement, known as EDSA Dos, was sparked by allegations of corruption and plunder against Estrada. When the impeachment trial was abruptly halted by senators allied with the president, public outrage exploded.
Millions of Filipinos took to the streets, with the support of youth activists, civil society groups, and even the military. After four days of protests, Estrada stepped down, paving the way for then-Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to assume office. This event proved that the spirit of EDSA was still alive and that Filipinos remained vigilant against government corruption.
2. EDSA Tres (2001): The Estrada Loyalist Uprising
Following the success of EDSA Dos, thousands of Estrada supporters staged their own protest, dubbed EDSA Tres, to demand his reinstatement. Unlike its predecessors, this movement was largely driven by the urban poor, who felt that their voices had been ignored. The protest escalated into violence, with clashes between demonstrators and government forces. The movement ultimately failed, highlighting the divide in Philippine society regarding leadership and governance.
3. The Million People March (2013): Fighting Pork Barrel Corruption
One of the biggest mass protests in recent history, the Million People March was a nationwide demonstration against the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), commonly known as the pork barrel system. The movement was triggered by a massive corruption scandal involving billions of pesos funneled into fake NGOs.
Unlike the EDSA movements, which were largely influenced by political factions and the military, the Million People March was organized primarily through social media. Citizens from all walks of life gathered at Luneta Park and other key locations across the country to demand the abolition of PDAF. The pressure led to a Supreme Court ruling declaring the pork barrel system unconstitutional, marking a victory for grassroots activism in the digital age.
4. Anti-Terror Law Protests (2020): Defending Civil Liberties
In 2020, the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act sparked widespread protests, with critics arguing that the law could be used to silence dissent and violate human rights. Activists, students, journalists, and opposition groups organized demonstrations both online and on the streets, branding the movement as a fight for democracy and free speech.
Despite restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Filipinos found ways to express their opposition through digital activism, solidarity protests, and legal challenges. The resistance against the Anti-Terror Law showcased the adaptability of modern activism in an era of heightened surveillance and online censorship.
5. The 2022 Election Movement: A New Wave of People Power?
The 2022 Philippine elections saw an unprecedented level of civic engagement, with millions of Filipinos actively participating in campaigns, fact-checking disinformation, and organizing volunteer-driven initiatives. While the election results were met with mixed reactions, the surge of political awareness and youth involvement signaled a new era of people power—one that extended beyond street protests and into the digital battlefield.
Final Thoughts: The Ever-Evolving Spirit of People Power
The legacy of EDSA lives on in every Filipino-led movement demanding accountability, justice, and good governance. From mass uprisings to digital activism, the methods may have changed, but the essence remains the same: when the people unite, change is possible. As history has shown, the power of the people is not just a moment—it is a force that continues to shape the Philippines.
References:
- Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines
- Philippine Daily Inquirer
- Rappler
- CNN Philippines
- Supreme Court Ruling on PDAF