On February 25th, thousands of citizens gathered in the central part of Manila, marking the 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution that led to the ousting of Ferdinand Marcos' dictatorship in the Philippines. This peaceful uprising not only ended two decades of authoritarian rule but also set a precedent for civic activism in the region. Today, the country is led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the son of the ousted dictator, who is currently facing similar corruption allegations. The protesters chanted slogans demanding accountability from the current administration, reflecting their persistent commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring democratic values prevail.

The People Power Revolution, triggered by years of martial law and civic discontent, successfully united Filipinos in their quest for democracy in 1986. Citizens congregated at EDSA, the monumental site of the uprising, waving banners that read "We are the People Power" and "Confronting Corruption and Nepotism". The atmosphere was both celebratory and resolute, celebrating a historic achievement while also voicing concerns about the present government. The continued activism of citizens serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with democratic governance and the vigilance required to maintain it.

A poignant reflection came from Edith Reyes, a 76-year-old participant of the original uprising, who stated that their struggle for democracy was lauded globally. Her presence amidst younger activists symbolizes the intergenerational continuity of the fight against corruption. The gathering emphasized the importance of collective civic action, suggesting that the legacy of the People Power Revolution still resonates today as citizens remain determined to hold their leaders accountable and foster transparency in governance.