The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Catholic Education (CBCP-ECCE) have called for the declaration of February 25 as an “academic holiday” in Catholic schools nationwide.
In a joint statement released Tuesday, February 3, the groups said the move aims to encourage schools to hold Masses, youth forums, and activities centered on truth and justice in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution.
“Students and the youth, as heirs of democratic space, must cultivate the knowledge, values, and resolve to challenge injustice, misinformation, and authoritarian tendencies,” the statement read.
The groups stressed that the EDSA Revolution should not be seen merely as a historical commemoration but as an “unfinished movement” requiring vigilance and active participation to defend democracy and promote justice, dignity, and peace.
“May the spirit of the People Power continue to guide us in shaping a future worthy of the sacrifice, faith, and moral courage that defined EDSA forty years ago,” they added.
Several organizations have earlier confirmed plans to hold large-scale protest actions on February 25.
The first People Power Revolution took place on February 25, 1986, drawing millions of Filipinos in a nationwide protest that restored democracy and was later recognized globally as a peaceful and bloodless revolution.