Commemorating people power  

I was ushered into a world where the country was seemingly at peace. It was former President Fidel Ramos' signature jumping with fists up in the air that filled my childhood mind whenever I remember the leadership that used to rule in the Philippines. It was not until I reached college and had an in-depth study of what happened in the 1970’s to the 1980’s when I able to grasp the fullness of the hardship our forefathers had to go through.

The early years of Marcos’ term were great, no doubt about that. We were soaring high economically, as the country had many firsts such as an airline, great infrastructures, and whatnot. Little did the Filipino know that these are all myths created for us to believe that what the Marcos regime did was good for us while they were grabbing what they could with the power bestowed upon them.

This is no hate piece but rather a reflection of a piece of our history to which its narratives have changed. The power of disinformation on social media has shifted the rage of modern-day citizens to awe of this once-great family. We are set to believe that what they did then was more good than harm, not minding the many people were tortured and killed while others remain missing until today.

Yesterday, February 25th, will always remind us that there is strength in numbers. That fateful day when everyone marched down the streets was the turning moment for that time in history. We all knew that all the usurpation, abuse, and corruption had to stop. If the government would not do its duty to be for the people, then it is within the peoples' power to remove them from that position.

The many films which reflect our society in the day give me a sense of pride at how those who went against the Marcos family stood firm in their beliefs and were never persuaded by the illusions of grandeur. The famous people who went in and out of the prison just to join the fight against human rights' violation have become a big part of our history. It is but proper to remember all these things that transpired and hopefully translate this into rage for our country's next leadership.

Lucky are those who know the truth about martial law for they will never be fooled. Yet, they are burdened more than anyone to take on the challenge of telling the truth. It is time that Filipinos wake up from the foolishness of grand rallies, sorties, and other events that only lead them to false promises and failure. Sure, we can give everyone the benefit of the doubt but the name and track record just says it all.

As for me, I will never forget the first quarter storm and every journalist’s struggle to keep the rage alive.