AHEAD OF the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution, Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, urged Catholics to remember the spirit of EDSA, repent for taking it for granted, and respond with courage to enliven it in the present.
Garcera challenged the faithful to sustain the “fire of EDSA, set aflame forty years ago,” by pursuing the common good for the next generations.
“This extraordinary event was not an accident, nor simply a human achievement. Rather, it is a testament of God’s favor on His people, who sought Him in their darkest hour,” he said in a pastoral letter on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
The prelate said Filipinos’ first duty was to remember the heroes and true heart of the People Power, including mothers, the elderly, and the youth.
“They showed the true power of faith that can reshape society without bloodshed. Their witness pierced the armor of oppression. Prayers proved stronger than tanks. Faith triumphed over fear,” he said in the letter, which will be read in all Masses on Feb. 22.
Garcera however said Filipinos must repent for “squandering the gift of EDSA,” as they have forgotten that freedom is both a task and a duty.
“We failed to take full responsibility for nation-building. Our country remained in ruins. Complacent and complicit to the scandalous corruption and the ugly face of impunity, we have betrayed not only ourselves, but also our God,” he said.
He urged Filipinos not to tire of standing for truth and rejecting lies, emphasizing the need to respond with courage and love.
Garcera stressed that change is both personal and communal, or achieved within individuals and institutions.
“Daily integrity is the sacrifice of doing good even when no one is looking. This is to turn our backs on lies and dishonest practices. Our institutions and communities must leave behind old habits that perpetuate corruption. And when we work together, we can do a lot more,” the prelate said.
Garcera urged Filipino Catholics to support the passage of an Anti-Dynasty Bill and form parish-based public accountability movements to monitor public funds and projects.
He also called for an early-voter education program for the 2028 elections to promote good citizenship and governance.
“All these require a revolution, a revolution of the heart. After 40 years of EDSA, millions among us wallow in poverty and suffering because we have returned to our old bad habits. We need a revolution of hearts,” Garcera said.
The CBCP president called on dioceses and parishes nationwide to celebrate Triduum Masses to mark the EDSA anniversary, on Feb. 22, 23 and 24.
An EDSA People Power thanksgiving Mass may also be offered by Philippine churches on Feb. 25.
