People power broker

The EDSA celebration message appears wrapped in ambiguity amid reports of a possible coalition between the Marcos administration and the yellow mob.

Nosy Tarsee secured a manifesto for the 25 February People Power celebration, which, ironically, marks the day the overstaying regime of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was dislodged.

Despite stating the allegations against Marcos Jr. and the failure of his impeachment, there has been no call for him to submit to accountability or to step down.

What was emphasized, however, was the collective struggle against corruption and poverty, and for truth, justice, and accountability, on the 40th anniversary of People Power I.

It is all too tame, not worthy of a protest manifesto such as those issued in the past.

“Forty years have passed since Filipinos came together to end the plunder and repression of the Marcos dictatorship. We commemorate this as an expression of appreciation for People Power I in EDSA and in other parts of the country, which proved that unity is the people’s weapon to restore democratic institutions (however limited) and to strive for a more decent life for all,” according to the statement.

“While the budget for public services such as education, health, electricity, housing, agriculture, and others remains insufficient, the people are burdened with heavy taxes and debt to raise funds that are merely stolen by politicians and contractors,” it added.

Elections, it charged, have become contests among dynasties and money politics: contractor donations to politicians, including the president, vice president, and lawmakers, are widespread.

The statement was actually too bland to draw people into the stretch of EDSA where the revolt happened, but it did send a clear message that collaboration with those in power is possible.

Of course, the aim is to halt the Sara Duterte juggernaut after she announced her intention to run for president.