FORTY years after the historic People Power Revolution, religious and community leaders in Cebu are asking a tough question: Has the promise of 1986 actually been kept?
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy delivered a powerful message marking the 40th anniversary of the uprising that toppled a dictatorship. Speaking to a crowd organized by the anti-corruption group Supakk 2.0, the Archbishop warned that while the country is free, many Filipinos are still "trapped."
'The Promise Has Yet to Be Fulfilled'
Uy didn't hold back during his homily. He explained that the 1986 revolution was supposed to be a national awakening, but four decades later, the country is still struggling with the same old problems.
"My brothers and sisters, 40 years have passed, but the call of Edsa remains valuable today," Uy said in Cebuano. He pointed out that true freedom is at risk because of deep-seated issues like:
* Political Dynasties: Power staying within a few families "as if it can be inherited."
* Personality Politics: Voters choosing famous names instead of checking if a candidate is honest or capable.
* Unequal Justice: A system where the poor are easily jailed while the wealthy often go free.
The Archbishop criticized "political patronage," where the poor are given short-term aid instead of real jobs and long-term help. He urged Filipinos to stop voting for people just because they are popular and to start demanding accountability.
Protesters target "king and queen" of corruption
While the archbishop spoke of moral renewal, activist groups took to the streets of Cebu City to voice their frustrations with current leaders.
Gathering at Freedom Park before marching to Colon Street, various sectors criticized the administrations of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte. The groups called for fair wages, better government performance, and an end to the misuse of public funds.
Jaime Paglinawan, chairman of Bayan Central Visayas, took aim at the two most powerful families in the country, labeling them the "King and Queen of corruption."
"This Edsa People Power should ensure that no other Marcos or Duterte sits in MalacaƱang," Paglinawan told the crowd.
A peaceful remembrance
Despite the strong words and heated rhetoric, the day remained calm. The Cebu City Police Office reported that about 100 people joined the protest march, and no disturbances or trouble were recorded.
The 1986 Edsa Revolution is remembered globally as one of the largest non-violent protests in history. For the leaders in Cebu, the 40th anniversary is not just a day to look back at the past, but a reminder to fix the broken systems that still affect Filipinos today. (CDF, AYB)