Democracy thrives when citizens come together to exercise their rights responsibly.

Within the whitewashed walls of our classroom, Mrs. Blanco, my Grade 6 teacher, first introduced us to social studies, more particularly the Philippine Constitution.

I was fortunate to attend JASMS, the progressive school of the Benitez family along EDSA in Quezon City, where social studies was part of our learning environment, mirroring discussions that filled our family table — current affairs over breakfast, regional news at lunch, showbiz gossip for merienda, and politics at dinner.

Being no expert on the Constitution and social studies in general, the early exposure in school and growing up in a civic-oriented family shaped my awareness and understanding of the world.

Our 1987 Constitution states: “Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.” Democracy in Philippine society dates back to our datu or village chief where consultation with a council of elders was done prior to a decision. This was already participative governance.

Fast forward to the INC rally exhibiting their organizational efficiency and logistical capabilities leading to effectiveness. It showed how a direct exercise of power by the citizens in a democracy shapes the way and manner they wish to be governed.

Official estimates by the PNP placed the rally participants at 1.8 million in Manila and nine other places. While some believe it could be higher, the actual number is not that relevant.

What can this event teach us about democracy in fostering unity, peace and development that leads to a measurable and attainable better life for each Filipino?

Again, democracy is a system of governance where the authority emanates from the people. Likewise, of prime importance is the power to select who will govern us. We elect competent individuals who should listen to the people’s voices because the Constitution provides for freedom of expression, including assembly, like the INC-led peace rally.

Observers said it was the biggest gathering of Filipinos exercising their right to be heard in recent times. There were no untoward incidents and no mudslinging reported on the various media platforms.

Malacañang even suspended classes and work in Manila and Pasay where the assembly took place, to ensure order and minimize disruption for all concerned. Clearly, the peace rally was one for the books, at least in my notebook.

I believe thanks are in order to the INC and its leadership for maintaining order during the rally. It showed a collaboration as there were also members of other congregations, including a short motorcade of Muslims going to the Manila rally.

This was a feat quite like no other and has set the bar for future organized rallies calling for similar actions. It was also noted that after the event, the venues were left clean.

In a time where there is a perception of divisiveness, political exercises like this one, surprisingly led by a religious congregation, reminds us that it is still us, the holders of power and authority, who will still and should be the ones to restore peace and unity.

Perhaps, we are fortunate that massive groups like the INC and other congregations are there to help us. But, while they can mount similar activities, there are still democratic boundaries to be respected.

The protection and preservation of the democracy that we have is our sacred and shared responsibility. The INC’s peace rally showed what can be achieved by people from various walks of life collaborating with each other. Coming together to attain peace, unity and progress is not that far away or difficult.

(Alexander Alimmudin Jacinto Ali, born to a Muslim father and a Catholic mother, is a former government official and senatorial candidate committed to serving his country. A devoted family man with a cheerful, playful nature, he approaches life with optimism and inspires others through his dedication and positivity.)