USTP Panaon commemorates 39th EDSA People Power Anniversary

By James Francis M. Barlisan, USTP Panaon BSIT Student
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To commemorate the 39th anniversary of the Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) People Power Revolution, which restored democracy in the Philippines, the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Panaon, Misamis Occidental (USTP Panaon) organized a series of activities to honor its legacy and educate students on its historical significance on February 25, 2025. USTP Panaon—among the many institutions that declared a suspension of classes—upheld the spirit of the revolution by suspending classes across all its campuses.

The department organizations—League of Information Technologists (LIT), Future Educators’ Guild, Inc. (FEG), and Organization for Conservation, Ecology, and Academic Nobility (OCEAN)—led the commemoration with activities including a film viewing of EDSA documentaries, a panel discussion with students, and a candle-lighting ceremony, all aimed at deepening the understanding of the revolution’s relevance today.

Two faculty guest speakers, Mr. Jan James Arañas and Ms. Darfe Mae Dando, played a crucial role in the event by delivering insightful discussions on the significance of the People Power Revolution and its lasting impact on Philippine democracy. Moreover, Mr. Arañas, a member of the Arts and Sciences faculty, emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices of the people during the revolution and honoring them through actions.

The event concluded with a solemn candle-lighting ceremony with prayers offered, symbolizing the students’ commitment to upholding democracy and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

Following the event, the students were united for a clean-up drive activity, focusing on waste segregation and ground maintenance. The initiative aimed to reinforce the values of unity, responsibility, and collective action within the campus community. 

The joint efforts of students, including the USTP Panaon faculty and staff, highlighted the shared commitment to remembering the People Power Revolution- not just as a historical event but as an ongoing responsibility to defend democracy and human rights.