Progressive groups in the Philippines are preparing to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on Wednesday, February 25, with separate demonstrations along EDSA, after efforts to coordinate a unified event failed.
Divergent Paths for Protest
Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) President Renato Reyes stated on Sunday, February 22, that attempts to align actions with the Trillion Peso March Movement were unsuccessful despite multiple meetings earlier in the month. The groups will proceed with independent programs, even if they occur in the same general area. The Trillion Peso March Movement will hold its program at the People Power Monument, while Bayan will convene at the EDSA Shrine.
Reyes indicated that while the groups will be physically proximate, differences in messaging are expected, particularly regarding the extent of criticism directed toward individuals implicated in corruption. These separate actions follow previous, uncoordinated anti-corruption rallies held in September of last year.
Demands and Restrictions
Disagreements over political demands are central to the split. The Trillion Peso March Movement, led by Francis Dee—grandson of former President Corazon Aquino and Benigno Aquino Jr.—will focus on calls to jail corrupt officials, pass an anti-dynasty law and enact further anti-corruption measures. Bayan, but, is calling for the resignation of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. And Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Quezon City government has indicated it will not issue permits for rallies calling for the government’s downfall, deeming such actions potentially “seditious” and “dangerous.” This restriction has raised concerns with Bayan, who view limiting protest alternatives as problematic.
Permit Issues and Jurisdictional Disputes
Logistical challenges and permit issues further complicate matters. Quezon City officials informed Bayan that they lack jurisdiction over the area in front of the EDSA Shrine, advising the group to seek permits from Mandaluyong and the Eastern Police District. The Quezon City government did, however, approve the Trillion Peso March Movement’s application for a program at the People Power Monument. Authorities proposed a single stage to aid traffic and crowd control, but this suggestion was not universally accepted.
Despite potential permit hurdles, former Ateneo School of Government dean Antonio “Tony” La Viña noted in a Facebook post that existing jurisprudence does not require permits for rallies and marches, allowing authorities only to regulate the time, place, and manner of assemblies, not their content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Trillion Peso March Movement and Bayan’s planned protests?
The Trillion Peso March Movement will focus on calls for specific anti-corruption measures, while Bayan is demanding the resignation of President Marcos Jr. And Vice President Duterte, among other demands.
What is the Quezon City government’s position on protests calling for the government’s downfall?
The Quezon City government has stated it will not issue permits for rallies that call for the government’s downfall, considering such actions potentially seditious and dangerous.
Where will each group be holding their demonstration?
The Trillion Peso March Movement’s program will be held at the People Power Monument, while Bayan will convene at the EDSA Shrine.
As the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution approaches, will the separate demonstrations ultimately strengthen or weaken the message of those seeking change in the Philippines?
