Groups chant ‘No to Cha-cha’ on Edsa People Power anniversary

The celebration of the 38th anniversary of Edsa People Power Revolution in front of the Edsa Shrine in Quezon city on February 25, 2024.

MANILA, Philippines — Pro-democracy groups on Sunday commemorated the 38th anniversary of People Power Revolution at Edsa with calls to stop Charter change (Cha-cha).

The groups, consisting of farmers, laborers, teachers and religious organizations, among others, shouted “No to Cha-cha!”

They conducted their demonstration in front of Edsa Shrine in Quezon city where they waved flags and picket signs.

The country’s principal Charter was ratified in 1987, a year after the revolt which toppled the dictatorship of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

It was described as a Charter that would bring in a new era of democracy in the country.

Gabriela Women’s Party representative Arlene Brosas told INQUIRER.net that this year’s celebration of the historic revolt is aimed at the preservation of the country’s Constitution.

She said changing it is akin to dismantling the symbol of People Power Revolution in 1986.

“Any form of Charter change is a direct attack on our citizens and our marginalized folk,” she said in an interview.

“We say that what Filipinos really need is livelihood, an increase in salary, and land for our farmers,” Brosas added.

Meanwhile, ACT Teachers party-list representative France Castro said blocking Cha-cha moves is essential in preserving the country’s sovereignty.

“They say that Charter change will amend the economic provisions of the country, which may heighten foreign domination in the Philippines,” the lawmaker warned.

House of Representatives is set to deliberate on Cha-cha as a committee of the whole on February 26.

This year’s observance of the bloodless event is the second that was held during the administration of former President Marcos Sr.’s son, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

The celebration in 2024 was not declared a holiday, as stated under Proclamation No. 368 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on October 11, 2023.