ILOILO – Several schools in Iloilo have suspended classes or shifted to online learning today in observance of the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.
Despite Malacañang Palace declaring February 25 as a working holiday, these schools decided to postpone face-to-face classes to give students the opportunity to reflect on this historic and significant event in Philippine history.
Among the institutions that suspended classes are the Western Institute of Technology (WIT), Central Philippine University (CPU), and the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) in Miag-ao.
As part of the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP), Assumption Iloilo also announced a suspension of classes and work as a statement of their commitment to democracy, freedom, and justice.
Meanwhile, Angelicum Iloilo opted for asynchronous online classes and encouraged students to participate in activities such as film viewings, reflections, and interactive discussions to deepen their understanding of the revolution.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas stated that he would not declare a holiday today, emphasizing that February 25 is not marked in red on the calendar.
He explained that he is accountable for following the city’s “no work, no pay” policy and defended President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to classify the historic event as a special working day, citing it as part of the President’s prerogative.
Despite this, the mayor reminded the public that the EDSA People Power Revolution should continue to be remembered, as it was the culmination of a long struggle that began even before the declaration of Martial Law.
