The Church’s use of media in EDSA

It was Cardinal Vidal of Cebu who first condemned the massive cheating of the snap election when at 9:00 in the evening Cardinal Sin of Manila appealed over Radio Veritas for food, other supplies and physical presence to support protesters gathered at EDSA on February 22, 1986. Though it seemed so dangerous and futile as they would be dispersed by government troops, many nuns, priests and faithful trooped to EDSA to end the dictatorship of President Marcos.

Radio Veritas played a critical role during the mass uprising. Former University of the Philippines president Francisco Nemenzo stated that: “Without Radio Veritas, it would have been difficult, if not impossible, to mobilize millions of people in a matter of hours.” Similarly, a certain account in the event said that: “Radio Veritas, in fact, was our umbilical cord to whatever else was going on” (cf. Wikipedia).

As we remember that historic event in our country as Filipino people, let us not only learn and be inspired by the ideals of our leaders who helped restore democracy. Let us also make good use of the Church’s media by patronizing our very own platforms and programs and thereby influence the community with Christian values of truth and communion rather than exploitation.

Mary, Queen of peace, pray for us!