Progressive groups on Tuesday, Feb. 25, marked the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution—an event that they said should remind the country of the power of collective action to stand up for what is right.

At the Bantayog ng mga Bayani, Bayan Muna Party-list offered flowers to remember the heroes who sacrificed their "lives, sweat, talents, and skills to fight the Marcos dictatorship," according to the group's former representative in the Congress, Satur Ocampo.

For Bayan Muna, it is crucial to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who valiantly opposed the tyranny of the Marcos regime as their courage and commitment to democracy should serve as an inspiration for the youth of today.

"Sa paggunita sa EDSA, dapat nating alalahanin at ipaalam sa kabataan ang tunay na kasaysayan ng batas militar. Kailangan nating itaguyod ang kaalaman at pagkilos ng kabataan para sa tama at makatarungan (As we celebrate EDSA, we should remember and tell our children about what really happened during martial law. We should establish children's understanding about what is right and just)," Ocampo said.

Meanwhile, the Gabriela Women's Party (GWP) called on Filipinos to embody the spirit of EDSA by demanding accountability from the government.

They want the current Marcos Jr. administration to return the supposed plundered wealth taken during the Marcos Sr. administration as well as hold former president Rodrigo Duterte accountable over his deadly war on drugs.

GWP first nominee Sarah Elago said the upcoming elections will provide "a crucial opportunity for Filipinos to exercise their collective power against entrenched political dynasties and corruption".

"Huwag nating kalimutan ang aral ng EDSA. Ang tunay na kapangyarihan ay nasa mamamayan, hindi sa mga dinastiyang pulitiko na nagpapalit-palit lang ng pwesto habang patuloy na nagpapayaman sa kaban ng bayan (Let's not forget the lessons of EDSA. The true power lies with the people, and not with the political dynasties that only enrich themselves using people's money)," she said.

The group then called on women and youth as well as all marginalized sectors to unite in demanding genuine reforms and rejecting traditional politicians who perpetuate a system that benefits only the few.

"The true legacy of EDSA is the reminder that a united people can topple even the most powerful dictator. Today, we must harness that same collective power to dismantle political dynasties, end corruption, and build a society that truly serves the interests of ordinary Filipinos," GWP Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas said.