By Juliane Judilla
A youth alliance in Western Visayas is calling for a student walkout on Feb. 25 to mark the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, opposing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s declaration of the day as a “special working holiday.”
The Western Visayas Youth and Student Alliance (WVYSA) urged students and schools to take part in the protest, emphasizing the need for renewed action and solidarity in defending democracy amid economic hardships and political crises under the current administration.
‘No Erasing of History’
WVYSA criticized the special working holiday designation, calling it a deliberate attempt to downplay the significance of the revolution and distract from ongoing struggles faced by many Filipinos.
“We cannot stand idly by while our shared history is being undermined,” the group said.
“We must honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our democracy by ensuring that we continue to uphold the values they fought for.”
‘Leave Your Seats for the Streets’
The group called on students and schools to recognize the significance of the EDSA uprising by declaring a “no-class” day and encouraging participation in activities that commemorate the revolution.
“We urge every student to join the walkout, step beyond the confines of their schools, and unite with workers, farmers, fishermen, women, and all marginalized communities,” WVYSA said.
“By standing together, we reaffirm that accountability and justice are non-negotiable values in our democratic society.”
WVYSA also highlighted the worsening economic conditions, citing rising prices of rice, food, and transportation, as well as the chronic underfunding of essential services such as education and healthcare.
“Our message is clear: The true power of the Filipino people lies in unity,” the group declared.
The call for a student walkout reflects a broader push for social justice and accountability, with WVYSA urging all Filipinos, especially the youth, to stand together in preserving the hard-won freedoms of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
