ATM Statement on the 40th EDSA People Power Anniversary
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Forty years after the historic People Power at EDSA in 1986, the Filipinos are again witnessing the massive plunder of the economy and the country’s natural resources. Forty years after EDSA, the nation remains burdened by debt, persistent poverty, ongoing environmental destruction, and continued human rights violations—especially in communities affected by mining.
Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) joins thousands of Filipinos marching in the streets today to demand accountability from corrupt government officials and their private sector cohorts. We support the demand for the passage of the Anti-Political Dynasty bill to prevent the concentration of power among a few families –many of whom are implicated in the flood control scandal. We also particularly call for an end to the devastation of the environment and communities brought about by the extractive industries.
Large-scale mining has been aggressively promoted by the PBBM administration despite strong resistance from local communities. Faced with a government that favors mining corporations and ignores the cries of mining-affected communities, residents have resorted to protest actions to bring attention to their plight. Many risk their lives by erecting barricades to stop destructive mining operations and prevent the transportation of minerals and heavy machinery to and from the mining sites.
Indeed, the assertion of their democratic rights is justly exercised by marginalized communities that have long suffered government neglect. The vibrant spirit of the people’s power lives on.
May the commemoration of the EDSA People Power Anniversary remind us that we must forge ahead and fight for our dignity and rights. The democracy and freedom we should have gained right after EDSA must be seized now to effect systemic change and transformation in our everyday lives.
Let us not waver in our collective struggle for truth and accountability, social justice and human rights, and an empowering and progressive society for the next generations.
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