Philippines suspends classes for EDSA People Power 40th anniversary

Multiple prominent academic institutions across the Philippines have announced suspensions of classes and administrative operations on February 25, 2026, to mark the 40th anniversary of the historic EDSA People Power Revolution. This significant milestone commemorates the 1986 non-violent uprising that led to the overthrow of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the subsequent inauguration of Corazon Aquino as president.

Despite the official government designation of February 25 as a special working day, several universities have independently declared academic holidays to enable their communities to participate in anniversary events and reflect on this pivotal moment in Philippine history. The revolution, characterized by massive peaceful demonstrations along Epifano delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), fundamentally transformed the nation’s political landscape four decades ago.

Institutional participation includes Ateneo de Manila University, which has established a University Holiday to facilitate involvement in EDSA commemorative activities. Similarly, De La Salle Philippines has suspended classes and work across its member institutions to support mobilization efforts connected to the anniversary observance.

The University of Santo Tomas, University of the East (with suspensions at both Manila and Caloocan campuses), Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Mapúa University (affecting Intramuros, Makati, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay locations), and Adamson University have all implemented similar measures. These institutions have not only canceled academic sessions but also encouraged students, faculty, and staff to engage in reflection and activities honoring the revolution’s legacy of democratic change and peaceful protest.