Written by: Emilio
Edited by: Alexis
“You forgive, you forget, but you never let it go.”
– “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar.
51 years since the birth of Martial Law in the Philippines and 38 years since the EDSA Revolution, ISM is at a crossroads – should ISM commemorate these significant turning points and highlight these critical events of Philippine history in its curriculum? Although some may argue that these events are in the past and may feel distant to present-day students, the importance of understanding Martial Law and the EDSA Revolution remains crucial. ISM, like any other school in the Philippines, must acknowledge the horrific events of Martial Law, and celebrate the unwavering courage of Filipinos during the peaceful EDSA revolution.
For context, Martial Law, declared in 1972 by former President Ferdinand Marcos, marked a dark period in Philippine history characterized by censorship, human rights violations, and political repression. On the other hand, the EDSA Revolution of 1986 was a pivotal moment that symbolized the collective power of the Filipino people in overthrowing an authoritarian regime and restoring democracy. Today, the son of former President Ferdinand Marcos, Bong Bong Marcos is sitting in Malacañang Palace, showing us all the more that we must learn from the mistakes of our past to shape an equitable future.
Furthermore, the school acknowledges that history is crucial for students, as shown through ISM’s commitment to social studies classes such as Modern World History, AP US History, IB History, among others. However, the school must acknowledge that Philippine history is no different– it covers similar themes, ideas, and stories as the history students study worldwide. But coming from the Philippines makes it even more critical that students, especially Filipino students, learn their host country’s history at ISM. Similarly, the stories of Martial Law and the EDSA Revolution are not just tales of the past; they echo through today’s politics, governance, and fights for justice. By digging into why these events happened and what came after, students can navigate today’s complex social and political scenes just as they do from learning from the history of other countries. Filipino history should be studied just as much as the other history students learn at ISM.
Moreover, it is very well known that ISM recognizes and promotes the essential virtues of truth and democracy. After all, the ISM logo says “Veritas et Democratia,” a direct translation of truth and democracy. To truly show their commitment to these values, ISM should also recognize that students can truly understand these values through Martial Law and the EDSA revolution. The inclusion of Martial Law and the EDSA Revolution in the curriculum fosters empathy and compassion among students. By learning about the struggles and sacrifices of past Filipino generations, students develop a deeper appreciation for democracy, human rights, and the importance of freedom. The historical understanding of these events empower students to engage meaningfully in issues of social justice and democratic participation, the same values that ISM has ingrained into the school.
Likewise, it is essential to note that 8th grade students at ISM have the opportunity to learn about this decisive point in Philippine history in their social studies class. However, this is the first time that this is brought up in the ISM curriculum, which means that from preschool all the way until seventh grade, there is no mention of Martial Law or the EDSA Revolution. High school social studies at ISM tells a similar story, as the only time high schoolers at ISM can learn about the Marcos regime is through the optional Philippine History elective. All Filipinos should study such a turning point in Philippine history– it should not be an option but rather a priority. ISM, which stands on the values of truth and democracy, should recognize that the truth of Martial Law and the EDSA revolution is slowly deteriorating with the new political atmosphere in the Philippines. As such, the school should take the initiative to ensure that all students are required to learn about their home country and/or host country, the Philippines.
In conclusion, if ISM is genuinely committed to its core values of truth and democracy, it should use the period of Martial Law and the EDSA Revolution to highlight and teach its students how democracy can and will prevail. An elective course or a small unit in the eighth grade is not enough. Filipinos and foreigners living in the Philippines should acknowledge the importance of these events, study them, and see how their lessons will shape the future.
