My experiences from "EDSA 3" remind me of our political struggles—something I’d rather not go through again. I want to shield him (my son) from the pain and chaos of rallies, but I know it's important for him to learn from our past to help build a better future.
As I drove down the traffic-laden EDSA, Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue, today, I couldn’t help but notice the "iconic" EDSA Shrine, a site which reminders us of political transformation. The sight of this monument transported me back when I was a self-proclaimed student activist, deeply committed to justice and change. I reminisced about the events of EDSA 3, nearly three decades ago, a pivotal moment in our nation’s political saga following the impeachment of former President Erap. Back then, I found myself amidst the throngs of people, marching with purpose from the EDSA Shrine to Mendiola, right at the back gate of Malacañang Palace.
Now, as I tried to steer my thoughts away from those rallying days, I caught a glimpse of my grown son on my phone, wishing to shield him from the harsh realities I faced back then. The memories of tear gas stinging our eyes, the gnawing hunger from three days spent on the streets, and the ever-present fear that accompanied each protest lingered in my mind. The struggle for our rights and the fight against oppression and the de facto government during that time felt all too real, filled with peril and uncertainty. That is why, I wanted to pray that my son couldn't experience that way, the darker aspects of political activism, and hoping to shield him from the memories that still haunt me.
Yet, as I drawn on EDSA heavy traffic, I reflected, and a troubling thought began to emerge: Why do political rallies appear to be an inescapable part of our society?
I took another look at the screenshot of my son and thought about the legacy we’re leaving him and the history he’ll learn. My experiences from EDSA 3 remind me of our political struggles—something I’d rather not go through again. I want to shield him from the pain and chaos of rallies, but I know it's important for him to learn from our past to help build a better future.
As the traffic eased at EDSA Shrine, I felt a mix of emotions and uncertainties. I hope and pray, we won’t see another political upheaval, especially nowadays that our country's political division hanging thick in the air.
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