As the nation marks the 39th anniversary of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) People Power Revolution, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go called on Filipinos to reflect on the enduring significance of unity in nation-building, emphasizing that the lessons of EDSA go beyond an annual commemoration.
“Ang tunay na diwa ng EDSA ay hindi lang isang selebrasyon tuwing Pebrero. Isa itong paalala na kapag nagbuklod-buklod ang mga Pilipino, mas mabilis nating naaabot ang pagbabago at pag-unlad,” Senator Go said, urging Filipinos to work together for a better future. He underlined that the unity displayed during the revolution can still serve as a guiding example for addressing current challenges.
The EDSA People Power Revolution, which culminated on February 25, 1986, became a defining moment in Philippine history, showcasing the power of peaceful collective action. Over three decades later, Senator Go stressed that while much progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to ensure that the ideals of good governance and public service remain at the forefront of leadership.
“Kung gusto nating umusad bilang isang bansa, dapat hindi lang tayo umaasa sa nakaraan. Mas mahalaga kung paano natin ginagamit ang mga natutunan natin noon upang bumuo ng mas maayos na kinabukasan para sa bawat Pilipino,” he added.
As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and a known health reforms crusader, Senator Go has consistently championed programs that aim to bring essential government services closer to the people, particularly in the healthcare sector. He believes that unity among leaders, institutions, and the citizenry is crucial in delivering these services efficiently.
“Kahit sa larangan ng serbisyong pampubliko, nakita natin na kung nagtutulungan ang gobyerno at ang mamamayan, mas nagiging epektibo ang mga programa. Hindi natin kailangang maghintay ng isang makasaysayang protesta para lang maipakita ang malasakit sa kapwa,” Senator Go said.
Senator Go also highlighted the role of responsible leadership in fostering a government that prioritizes the welfare of its people. He noted that the spirit of EDSA is rooted in accountability and transparency—values that should guide all public officials in serving the country.
“Ang aral ng EDSA ay dapat hindi lang alalahanin, kundi isabuhay. Mahalaga ang tiwala ng taumbayan sa gobyerno, at bilang lingkod-bayan, tungkulin natin na ipakita sa kanila na kaya natin silang pagsilbihan nang tapat at may malasakit,” Senator Go stated.
As the country moves forward, he urged Filipinos to channel the spirit of EDSA into everyday efforts—whether in governance, community initiatives, or personal contributions to society.
“Hindi lang ito tungkol sa kung anong nangyari noon. Ang tanong, paano natin gagamitin ang diwa ng pagkakaisa at mabuting pamamahala para sa ikabubuti ng susunod na henerasyon?” Senator Go concluded
“Magkaisa tayo para makapagbigay ng mas maayos at maaasahang serbisyo sa bawat Pilipino upang walang maiwan sa pag-unlad,” he added.
The anniversary of EDSA remains a crucial moment for national reflection, reminding Filipinos that progress is best achieved when people come together with a shared vision of a better and more just Philippines.
