Philippines Reflects: Anniversary of Uprising Against Marcos Dynasty

As hundreds of Filipino protesters took to the streets of Manila on February 25 to commemorate the uprising that ousted Ferdinand Marcos, the specter of his son’s political ascent loomed large. Despite Marcos Jr’s landslide victory in 2022, concerns persist about his intentions, particularly regarding proposed constitutional changes.

The protest, echoing sentiments from the 1986 uprising, vehemently rejected Marcos’s charter change efforts, fearing a regression into autocratic rule. With memories of the elder Marcos’s regime still vivid, demonstrators carried banners proclaiming “No to Cha-Cha” and “Never Again,” underscoring their determination to safeguard democracy.

While Marcos Jr. insists on economic reforms, apprehensions about term limits and authoritarian tendencies remain palpable, sparking fears of a resurgence of past injustices. As the nation grapples with its history, the anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom and democracy in the Philippines.