The People Power Revolution (or EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary) in the Philippines was a peaceful uprising that ended the 20-year rule of Ferdinand Marcos, ousted him from power, and restored democracy under Corazon Aquino. It remains one of the most significant examples of nonviolent resistance in modern history.

When is the People Power Revolution?

The People Power Revolution is celebrated on February 25 every year.

The following is the list of the People Power Revolution from 2020 to 2049.

The History of the People Power Revolution?

Ferdinand Marcos was elected president of the Philippines in 1965 and re-elected in 1969. In 1972, he declared martial law, citing threats of communism and social unrest. This allowed him to rule by decree, extend his presidency, and suppress opposition.

Under martial law, there were widespread human rights abuses, political repression, censorship, and corruption. Opposition leader Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. became a central figure, even while imprisoned and later exiled.

In 1983, Aquino was assassinated upon his return to Manila, sparking massive public outrage and intensifying resistance against Marcos.

By the mid-1980s, Marcos faced declining health, economic crisis, and growing unrest. He called a snap presidential election for February 7, 1986, hoping to legitimize his rule.

His main challenger was Corazon "Cory" Aquino, widow of Ninoy Aquino. The election was marred by massive fraud and intimidation, with Marcos declaring victory despite widespread evidence that Aquino had won. This triggered widespread protests and became the immediate cause of the revolution.

From Feb 22 to 25, 1986, disillusioned military leaders Juan Ponce Enrile (Defense Minister) and Fidel V. Ramos (Armed Forces Vice Chief of Staff) defected from Marcos. Citizens began gathering along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Manila to support the defectors.

Over the course of four days, more than two million Filipinos joined in peaceful demonstrations. Soldiers refused to fire on civilians, and many joined the movement.

On February 25, 1986, Marcos fled into exile in Hawaii. Corazon Aquino was sworn in as president, restoring democracy.

The People Power Revolution became a global symbol of peaceful resistance against dictatorship. It ended over 20 years of Marcos rule and re-established democratic institutions in the Philippines.

The event is commemorated annually on February 25 as the EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary.