In the vast and sometimes turbulent landscape of Philippine history, few figures stand as tall and unwavering as Senator Lorenzo M. Tañada. Known affectionately as the “Grand Old Man of the Philippine Senate,” Tañada was more than just a long-serving legislator; he was, for many Filipinos, the conscience of the state, a persistent and courageous…
Martial Law and Fourth Republic (1972-1986)
Learning for Freedom: Education and Organizing Against the Philippine Dictatorship
In Philippine history, there are periods that stand out for their difficulty and the incredible courage of ordinary people. One such time was the period of the Marcos dictatorship, especially the years of Martial Law from 1972 to 1981, which extended until 1986. This was a time when basic freedoms were limited, political opponents were…
How the World Watched: The International View of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution
The Philippines, a nation rich in history and culture, has often captured the world’s attention. But perhaps no single event drew the international gaze quite as intensely as the EDSA People Power Revolution of February 1986. For four momentous days, from February 22nd to 25th, the eyes of governments, media outlets, and citizens across the…
Understanding ‘People Power’ in Philippine History: From EDSA to Today
The Philippines has a unique place in modern history for its use of what has become known globally as “‘People Power’.” This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it describes a powerful form of non-violent protest and civilian resistance that has significantly shaped the nation’s political path. When we talk about ‘People Power’ in Philippine history, we…
Marcos Calls Snap Election in Bid to Retain Power
Marcos Calls Snap Election in Bid to Retain Power: A Nation on the Brink The twilight months of 1985 found the Philippines teetering on the edge. Two decades under the iron fist of President Ferdinand Marcos had transformed the nation. What began with promises of progress had devolved into authoritarian rule under Martial Law Philippines,…
The Ferdinand Marcos Era: Martial Law to His Ouster
The period spanning from the declaration of Martial Law in 1972 to the ouster of Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1986 represents one of the most transformative, controversial, and debated chapters in Philippine history. For nearly two decades, Marcos held an unprecedented grip on power, fundamentally altering the nation’s political landscape, economy, and social fabric. This…
Crafting the 1987 Post-Marcos Constitution: Shaping Philippine Law Through Democratic Values
The tumultuous years of Martial Law Philippines under Ferdinand E. Marcos fundamentally altered the political and legal landscape of the archipelago. When the EDSA People Power Revolution erupted in February 1986, bringing an end to decades of authoritarian rule, the Philippines stood at a critical juncture. The urgent task facing the new government led by…
The People Power Revolution Topples Dictator Marcos
The People Power Revolution, also known as the EDSA Revolution, stands as a watershed moment in Philippine history. In February 1986, a massive, non-violent civilian uprising, supported by military defectors and religious leaders, brought an end to the authoritarian rule of Ferdinand Marcos, who had governed the Philippines for over two decades, much of it…
Marcos Declares Martial Law in the Philippines
The 20th century in the Philippines is marked by periods of democracy, struggle, and authoritarian rule. Among the most pivotal and controversial moments in this turbulent history is the declaration of martial law by then-President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972. This single act fundamentally reshaped the political landscape, civil liberties, and socio-economic trajectory of the nation…
The Assassination of Opposition Leader Ninoy Aquino
The date August 21, 1983, is etched into the collective memory of the Philippines, a turning point that irrevocably altered the nation’s trajectory. On this fateful Sunday afternoon, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., the most prominent and vocal critic of the Marcos regime, returned from exile in the United States only to be assassinated upon disembarking…