MANILA — Religious leaders and advocacy groups are set to gather at the People Power Monument on February 25, 2025, calling for justice and national transformation, as the country marks the 39th anniversary of the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Organized by the Church Leaders Council for National Transformation (CLCNT), the event—titled EDSA People Power @ 39—seeks “to reignite the spirit of democracy and accountability as the country faces continued challenges of corruption, economic hardship, and governance failures.”

Faith-based communities and advocacy groups are uniting to call for justice and reforms, emphasizing three key messages: “Marcos Singilin!” (Make Marcos Accountable!), “Duterte Panagutin!” (Hold Duterte Responsible!), and “Sara I-Convict!” (Convict Sara!).

The gathering will amplify public outcry for transparency, justice, and the responsible use of public funds, especially in light of the recent impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, president of Caritas Philippines, stressed the moral imperative of fighting corruption.

“We cannot remain silent while the country suffers from bad governance, corruption, and impunity. The people must take a stand and demand accountability,” he said.

CLCNT, a newly formed coalition of church leaders advocating for good governance, was formally established on February 13, 2025. Its leadership includes Bishop Bagaforo of the Episcopal Commission on Social Action-Justice and Peace (ECSA-JP)/Caritas Philippines and Bishop Roberto Gaa of the Diocese of Novaliches. The group is backed by major faith-based organizations, including the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC), National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), and key Catholic institutions.

The commemoration underscores the enduring significance of People Power as a symbol of democracy and collective action.

“EDSA is a reminder that people’s power is real,” Bagaforo added. “It is time for us to reclaim that power and ensure that the values of democracy, justice, and good governance prevail in our nation.”

The CLCNT urges faith-based communities, civil society groups, and concerned citizens to join the mass gathering and stand united for justice and national renewal.

📷 Roberto Ignacio, People Power: The Philippine Revolution of 1986 | Courtesy of Presidential Museum and Library PH (2010-2016) – Flickr