Senatorial bets weigh in on EDSA anniversary

As the country marked the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, several senatorial candidates underscored the importance of democracy, accountability, and justice in the nation’s future.

Reelectionist Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, addressing barangay officials in Camarines Sur, emphasized the importance of EDSA in defending democracy.

“We must protect democracy at all times,” Go said.

He also encouraged barangay officials in Cavite to focus on serving the marginalized communities and ensuring that government services are accessible to all citizens.

In a radio interview, former senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan reflected on the global impact of EDSA, praising the revolution for inspiring peaceful, bloodless transitions worldwide.

He urged Filipinos to continue holding the government accountable, particularly after the 2025 elections, and called on the new incoming officials to focus on improving the economy and the nation.

Senatorial candidate Jimmy Bondoc took to social media to warn that the 2025 national budget could jeopardize the country’s future, stressing that legal experts have raised concerns about its constitutionality.

Bondoc, part of a group that filed graft and falsification charges against Speaker Martin Romualdez over alleged budget insertions, called for transparency in government spending.

In a Facebook Live session, former presidential adviser Raul Lambino questioned the long-term impact of the EDSA Revolution, citing concerns about the post-Marcos Sr. administration’s performance.

Meanwhile, former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez also weighed in, opposing the 2025 national budget and the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.

He said that impeachment is not the solution to critical issues like hunger and crime, calling the impeachment complaint against Duterte a violation of the Constitution.

On Tuesday, many Filipinos gathered at the People Power Monument in Quezon City to remember the revolution that ousted the dictator, President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., in 1986.

This year, survivors of martial law and young student leaders actively participated in the events, highlighting the continuing relevance of EDSA in shaping the minds of the youth.

According to the Philippine Institute for Student Democracy, more than 400 schools nationwide canceled classes or switched to online learning on 25 February to commemorate the historic event.