LGBTQIA+ organization, Layasari, from Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila, released an official statement on February 24 addressed toward their university to stand in solidarity in commemorating the 39th EDSA People Power Anniversary.
“As a Lycean organization for the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies, we uphold the values of democracy, equality, and human rights—principles that were at the heart of the EDSA People Power Revolution,” LPU Layasari emphasized in their caption.
The organization further divulged that LGBTQIA+ individuals were also instrumental in fighting for the country’s democratic rights during the Martial Law and the events that led to the EDSA Revolution. LPU Layasari recognized the courage of queer individuals of Philippine history who courageously fought on the streets in exchange for the nation’s peace and freedom.
Keeping this same courageous spirit in mind, LPU Layasari called upon their university administration to proactively commemorate the People Power. They suggested that LPU should organize “a prayer vigil for peace, good governance and accountability, as well as educational talks that will engage students in discussions on the history and significance of the revolution.”
LPU Layasari affirmed that as student leaders, it is crucial to uphold and never forget the lessons posed by history in terms of safeguarding democracy. In line with this, the organization condemned President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ‘s Proclamation No. 727 issued last October 24, which downgraded the EDSA People Power anniversary into a Special Working Day from its previous designation as a Special Non-Working Holiday.
“Unfortunately, 39 years have passed, and the namesake of the late dictator has once again stepped and seated into the [Malacañang] Palace with no strong promises to the people but to clear his Family’s name,” LPU Layasari stated. They similarly condemned the rampant misinformation and historical revisionism that have permeated within the country regarding the truths of the past, especially during the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
The organization stressed the importance of making “a firm stance in preserving the truth and educating future generations about the struggle for democracy.” Hence, they called upon their university, faculty, and students to join their cause. The statement was also undersigned by various student organizations within LPU.
As February 25 draws near, various schools and universities within Metro Manila have announced the cancellation of classes to observe the EDSA People Power Anniversary. As of writing, LPU Manila has not announced the cancellation of classes in light of the upcoming event.
Other POP! stories you might like:
UP student councils urged to increase awareness, participation in 2025 polls
Drag event faces backlash for unauthorized use of Carlo Vergara’s ‘ZsaZsa Zaturnnah’ character
Benj Pangilinan confronts self-doubt in new single ‘Alinlangan’
BINI delights Blooms with the release of their new bubblegum pop anthem, ‘Blink Twice’
