Cebu's Pivotal Role in the People Power Revolution: A Detailed Retrospective
As the nation commemorates the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, it is essential to reflect on the significant contributions of Cebu, which played a crucial role in the struggle against the Marcos dictatorship. While Cory Aquino's major protest in Cebu on February 22, 1986, marked a key moment, this was merely the culmination of a long and arduous process where Cebu's involvement was profound and multifaceted.
Early Resistance and Political Defiance
Following the declaration of Martial Law in 1972, many Cebuanos, such as Mocring Barcenas, were imprisoned for their opposition. Families opposed to Marcos, including the Osmeñas, sought refuge abroad to escape persecution. Despite the passage of the New Constitution in 1973, a majority of Cebuanos consistently voted "No" in every plebiscite related to it, demonstrating their steadfast resistance to the regime's policies.
Political Movements and Electoral Battles
In the 1978 Batasang Pambansa elections, the Pusyon Bisaya party, led by figures like Hilario Davide, Jr. and Natalio Bacalso, dominated in Cebu. This group was the sole opposition force to achieve victory nationwide, highlighting Cebu's strategic importance in the political landscape. By 1981, even after the lifting of Martial Law due to Pope John Paul II's visit to the Philippines, many Cebuanos boycotted the presidential election, further showcasing their discontent.
Escalating Protests and Student Activism
The assassination of Benigno Aquino in 1983 ignited widespread protests across Cebu. Student activism surged, particularly after the killing of Bashir Majid at Southwestern University. During this period, Esmeraldo "Junrey" Nadela was elected president of the Supreme Student Council at Colegio de San Jose Recoletos, marking the first such election in the country since 1972. Organizations like the League of Filipino Students (LFS) also emerged, amplifying the call for change.
Intensified Struggles and Community Mobilization
By 1984, anger in Cebu peaked during the Batasang Pambansa elections, where only Inday Nita Daluz succeeded as an opposition candidate in the province, despite Antonio Cuenco and Marcelo Fernan winning in the city. Activists like Dodong Holganza and his son Joeyboy were imprisoned, while Raul Pintoy lost his life in a protest in front of the Cebu Capitol. Concurrently, urban poor communities resisted demolitions, workers at Visayan Glass in Guadalupe went on strike, and farmers marched in increasingly intense street protests in Cebu.
Coalition Efforts and Media Involvement
The struggle intensified under the coalition BAYAN, led by Padre Rudy Romano, who was kidnapped in 1985. Media personnel, including radio commentators and newspaper writers from outlets like the Visayan Herald, joined the movement, using their platforms to advocate for justice and democracy. As the 40th anniversary of EDSA approaches, the courage of Cebuanos, descendants of Lapulapu, remains an unforgettable part of the nation's history, underscoring their vital role in the fight for freedom.
