Different sectors, organizations, church institutions and trade unions gather in EDSA Shrine last February 25, 2024 to commemorate the EDSA People Power Revolution 38 years ago. Celebrating the day is not just a festive one but also a timely call for many individuals and organizations to demand for real change especially that the Philippines are facing controversies of corruptions, power struggle among politicians and high inflations.

“Yes to Wage Increase! No to Charter Change!” is the vivid call of different groups of workers and other sectors during the event. Together with other organizations, YCW Philippines and IYCW ASPAC strongly disagree for the proposed Charter Change. YCW believe that the proposed amendment will only open the door for widespread exploitation of workers, threat to our sovereignty for allowing foreign ownership, and abuse of state power. Instead of tackling the Charter Change, it is better that the Congress to discuss increasing the wage of workers, which has not been prioritize in many past administrations.

“In the midst of high price of basic commodities, unemployment, lack of social protection, and low salaries, many politicians are prioritizing to amend the Philippine Constitution. However, the real problem that the country is facing right now is not the Constitution is obsolete, but the lack of implementation of it and of corruption among those in power. While the masses continue to experience job insecurity due to the continued existence of contractualization, low wages, unemployment, high inflations and increasing poverty. Amending the constitution should not be the priority now and is not vested to the interest of the Filipino people but only of the few”, says Mr. John Brian Geronimo, IYCW-ASPAC Coordinator.

The commemoration of the People Power EDSA Revolution is a reminder for all Filipinos that through unity and solidarity, we can advance the interests of the people. Today is a challenge for all of us to fight all forms of human exploitation and demand accountability for all the injustices that have occurred in our country.

Living wages and Job Security, Now! Fight and oppose Marcos' Charter Change.