DAVAO CITY – Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte called on the public to remain vigilant as the risk of authoritarian rule resurfaces again.

MAYOR Duterte
Duterte made the call during the 39th anniversary of the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution on Tuesday, Feb. 25.
The popular uprising was a historic moment when Filipinos united to reclaim democracy in 1986.
Duterte said martial law declared by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. in 1972 resulted in a dark period where many lives were lost and people suffered.
“As we remember those who suffered and fought for our liberties, we must remain vigilant, especially now, when the threat of authoritarian rule once again looms over our nation,” he said.
He said People Power was more than just a revolution. He emphasized that it was a testament to the collective strength of the Filipino people in demanding truth, justice, and accountability.
“It is also a reminder that we must remain united against any form of oppression,” Duterte said. He encouraged Filipinos to honor the legacy of people power by preserving the truth of history.
Duterte, hoping the darkest times in history would never repeat, said people’s rights must always be protected and democracy should remain strong for future generations.
In a privilege speech on Tuesday, Davao City Councilor and lawyer Luna Acosta, chairperson of the Committee on Peace and Public Safety, urged the people not to allow silent martial law in the country.
“While there are certain factions who wish to revise, downplay, and even erase the history of the Marcos dictatorship, let us continue to remember the history and learn from it,” Acosta said.
Acosta urged people to ensure laws are upheld by those responsible for creating and enforcing them. She said the power belongs to the people, as all government authority comes from them.