Philippines: Rallies likely nationwide through Feb. 25 to commemorate People Power Revolution anniversary

Event

Various civic groups are likely to stage rallies nationwide, especially Metro Manila, through Feb. 25, to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the People Power Revolution (also known as EDSA Revolution). Several organizations will probably also hold anti-President Rodrigo Duterte demonstrations in conjunction with the EDSA Revolution rallies. Likely protest sites in Metro Manila include the People Power Monument, EDSA Shrine, Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, Rizal Park, and other sites in Metro Manila. Thousands of people have participated in EDSA anniversary events in the capital in recent years, though the numbers will likely be smaller this year due to COVID-19 concerns and restrictions. The government may also hold other activities in conjunction with the anniversary through Feb. 25; officials have held programs at Camp Aguinaldo and Malacanang Palace in the past. Smaller events will likely take place at popular gathering sites like government buildings and monuments in other cities, including Bacolod, Bacoor, Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo.

Authorities will likely increase security, such as erecting security cordons and roadblocks, at any protest sites. The security measures will likely prompt localized transport and business disruptions, especially if demonstrators occupy nearby roads. Pro-Duterte activists could also stage counterrallies during any demonstrations. Clashes between opposing groups of activists, or between protesters and security personnel, are possible. Mass arrests may occur if officials consider any rally to violate COVID-19 protocols.

Context

The People Power Revolution was a series of popular demonstrations that culminated in the Feb. 25, 1986 downfall of then-President Ferdinand Marcos, that many Filipinos saw as corrupt and oppressive. Since 2017, several groups have marked the anniversary together with anti-Duterte protests to oppose his administration's policies, like extrajudicial killings and termination of legislation that banned the presence of military and police personnel on University of Philippines campuses, and the president's alleged close relations with the Marcos family. Activists have also claimed that Duterte is moving the country toward a dictatorship through policies that allegedly curtail political opposition and reduce freedom of expression.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to possible clashes. Plan for traffic disruptions near any event venues, and allocate additional time for travel near protest sites. Seek updated information from local, trusted sources on rally plans, as organizers may not announce details in advance. If any violence erupts, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe, non-government building. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.