University Commemoration of EDSA People Power@40 (Memo U2526-062)

This year, our country celebrates the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. The theme of Ateneo de Manila’s commemoration is Laging Manalig, Patuloy na Magtaya. We remember that the University’s response to Martial Law and the Marcos dictatorship was inspired by the call of a faith that does justice and leads to committed service. Our community participated in processes of formation and engagement that instilled a deep value for human dignity, people empowerment, solidarity with the poor, and communal reconciliation that is the spirit of active nonviolence. Drawing on Gospel values and Catholic social teaching, and moved by the witnessing of people who, following the example of Christ, gave of themselves in the struggle for democracy, we joined with millions of fellow Filipinos in the courageous and peaceful collective action that made possible the victory at EDSA in 1986.

We will commemorate EDSA@40 with a University Mass on 24 February 2026, 10:30 am at the Blue Eagle Gym. The Eucharistic celebration will be preceded by a procession and recitation of the Holy Rosary. 

On 25 February 2026, the Ateneo community will join other schools, communities, parishes, and organizations in the Tayo ang People Power events in the EDSA Shrine and People Power Monument. I am declaring a University Holiday on this date to underline the significance of this celebration and to enable our community – students, faculty members, professionals, staff, administrators, alumni/ae and parents – to join the EDSA@40 commemoration activities. I have tasked the Mission Integration Cluster to organize our contingent to the events.

Many of our people today have no memory of the genuine popular achievement of February 1986 and only see the widespread and brazen corruption, impunity, and inequality in our country today. But our youth are also searching for spaces of hope and for opportunities to work for a Philippine society that upholds the common good and is truly responsive to the needs of our people, especially the poor and vulnerable.

During this EDSA@40 commemoration, we ask the Lord for the grace of renewed inspiration, courage, and generosity to guide and sustain our mission of forming Filipino Christians and citizens who will give their lives in service to our country and people.