MANILA, Philippines — As the Philippines commemorates the 40th anniversary of the 1986 People Power Revolution this February 25, 2026, the role of religious faith and iconic sacred imagery remains a central theme of the peaceful uprising that toppled the Marcos dictatorship.
The National Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Fatima
One of the most significant religious symbols of the revolution was the National Pilgrim Image of Our Lady of Fatima.
- Symbol of Peace: Carried by then-Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile and Constabulary Chief Lt. Gen. Fidel V. Ramos as they joined the protesters, the image became an enduring symbol of the non-violent nature of the revolt.
- History: The image was brought to the Philippines in 1984 by Jaime Cardinal Sin. It had previously been stored in an attic in New Jersey for decades before being entrusted to the Philippines.
- Recent Honors: On February 25, 2024, the image was canonically crowned in the name of the Pope at its home in the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Valenzuela City, recognizing its historical and spiritual significance.
- 40th Anniversary (2026): To mark the four decades since the uprising, the Malolos Diocese organized a major procession of this same pilgrim image along Fatima Avenue in Valenzuela City.
Faith as a “Weapon” on the Frontlines
Historical accounts and recent reflections from Church leaders, including Cardinal Jose Advincula, emphasize that EDSA was as much a “spiritual experience” as it was a political one.
- The Rosary vs. Tanks: Nuns and laypeople famously knelt in front of armored tanks, armed only with rosaries and flowers. Many soldiers later recounted that they found it morally impossible to fire upon the praying crowds, who reminded them of their own mothers and grandmothers.
- Makeshift Altars: Throughout the four-day standoff (February 22–25, 1986), the highway was dotted with makeshift altars where Masses were held continuously, transforming the protest into a massive, open-air religious vigil.
- Religious Orders: Nuns from various congregations were often placed at the very front of the human chains as an appeal to the soldiers’ respect for the Church.
Commemoration in 2026
The 2026 anniversary, themed “Tayo ang People Power 40” (We are People Power 40), continues to highlight these religious elements. Events include:
- A special Mass officiated by Malolos Bishop Dennis Villarojo.
- Educational talks by Church historians to ensure younger generations understand the “miracle” of the peaceful transition of power.
- The processing of various religious images that were present during the original 1986 event to evoke the same “faith-filled” atmosphere.