Thirty
years ago, we were a bunch of dreamy- eyed and idealistic young college
students at Xavier University- Ateneo de Cagayan in Cagayan de Oro City who
believed that we could make a difference in the world. During those uncertain
times at the height of the People Power Revolution, I still remember our
professors encouraging us to get involved and to be aware of what was happening
around us.
We were
miles and miles away from imperial Manila and yet we were one in spirit with
the nation as we pitched in and listened to presidential bet Cory Aquino who
had called for a boycott of Marcos crony- operated corporations. There was even
a noise barrage and other forms of civil disobedience.
Those were
exciting times in the eyes of a young college student who was slowly waking up
to the sad realities around him. Remember, this was in Cagayan de Oro City,
acknowledged opposition country and the turf of legendary & charismatic
opposition leader Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel.
We knew something big that would
alter the course of Philippine history was about to happen. We were aware that
there was imminent danger especially for those who were in EDSA that time and
the only news we got at that time were the sporadic broadcasts on air.
Remember, all these happened during the 80’s when there were no cellular phones
and other modern communications technology. Even at those uncertain times,
there was excitement particularly for us students and to the radicals.
Everything
came to a head exactly 30 years ago when our peaceful, active & non- violent
uprising was able to achieve what was then unthinkable; oust Marcos from
Malacanang and end thirty years of a dictatorship.
There was
jubilation during the next few days and everyone was in high spirits. We all
thought that we were finally a nation that was to meet its glorious destiny.
But that’s another story.
Remember, the years may have dimmed the memories but the heart never forgets.
Long live the Spirit of EDSA People Power!
