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February 24, 2026 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Two separate programs will take place along EDSA tomorrow to mark the 40th anniversary of the people power revolution.
Progressive groups under the EDSA40 alliance said they would proceed with their activities at EDSA-Ortigas Avenue near the EDSA Shrine, an area earlier declared a “no-rally” zone, beginning at 1 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Trillion Peso March Movement (TPMM), which includes Tindig Pilipinas and Akbayan, will hold a separate program at the EDSA People Power Monument.
Teddy Casiño, chairman of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, said efforts were made to mount a single, unified gathering for the commemoration.
However, he noted that some TPMM members raised concerns over alleged calls for “unconstitutional and violent means, such as a military junta or revolutionary government.”
“Despite efforts to correct these misconceptions and outright disinformation, the position against a unified rally prevailed within TPMM,” Casiño said.
Kiko Dee, one of the lead convenors of the TPMM, clarified that their group will not allow calls for violence, statements directed at the military or proposals to install non-elected bodies such as a revolutionary government or transition council.
In a separate statement, the Quezon City government clarified that permit requests for activities along EDSA-Ortigas were endorsed to the Mandaluyong City government and the Eastern Police District.
“The Quezon City government clarifies that no group was ‘disallowed’ based on its position or beliefs. The actions taken by the local government were in accordance with existing laws and territorial jurisdiction. When the proposed venue is outside Quezon City, it is our duty to refer the organizers to the proper authorities,” it said in Filipino.
“There is also no truth to the claim that the local government prohibited the bringing of placards or attempted to control freedom of expression,” it added.
The city government said its sole interest is to maintain order during the gathering.
“As a city that consistently upholds human rights, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, we respect everyone’s right to express their views. At the same time, it is also our duty to ensure order and the safety of the entire community,” it said.
A total of 13,448 Philippine National Police officers and 500 Philippine Coast Guard personnel will be deployed across Manila “to ensure that each activity will be conducted in a safe, peaceful and orderly manner.”
The Armed Forces of the Philippines is also ready to provide assistance in support of law enforcement authorities when requested and as directed by proper authority.
Support
Joining in the EDSA anniversary activities, Catholic schools under the Diocese of Legazpi in Albay have announced the suspension of classes tomorrow.
Instead of attending classes, students, faculty and priests are encouraged to take part in a “March of Heroes” procession, described by Bishop Joel Baylon as a “solemn expression of gratitude for the gift of freedom, democracy and moral courage that marked the historic events of 1986.”
Students will wear costumes representing heroes from Philippine history, including figures from the EDSA revolution and contemporary heroes who continue to serve the country.
“Through this symbolic procession, we seek to pass on to the younger generation the truth and enduring meaning of EDSA so that its values may continue to shape our people and our future,” the bishop added.
Participants will assemble at 6 a.m. at Saint Agnes Academy and march at 7 a.m. to the Albay Cathedral for an 8 a.m. mass. A program will follow at 9:30 a.m. at the Albay Astrodome.
“May the memory of EDSA continue to inspire our schools and communities to form young people who are courageous, morally grounded and committed to the common good,” the Legazpi prelate said.
Aside from students and faculty members, more than 400 health workers from various hospitals in Metro Manila, led by the Health Alliance for Democracy (HEAD), are set to join the protest march to the EDSA Shrine tomorrow.
Albert Pascual, HEAD secretary general, said the health workers would demand full accountability and uncompromising transparency from government officials who plunder public funds and enrich themselves while millions of Filipinos sink deeper into poverty.
“We refuse to be silent as funds for health and public service are being squandered. Let us fight against this worsening poverty and corruption,” Pascual said in a statement. — Rhodina Villanueva, Evelyn Macairan, Emmanuel Tupas, Delon Porcalla, EJ Macababbad, Pia Lee-Brago
