February 25, 2026, marks the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. But for many Filipinos, the day is shrouded in confusion over holiday pay and a growing "Bagong People Power" movement fueled by a massive corruption scandal.
Is it a holiday? Will there be classes? And why are protesters marching over "ghost" flood projects? Here is the TrendWire breakdown.
The Holiday Verdict: "Special Working Day"
Under Proclamation No. 1006, Malacañang has declared February 25, 2026, as a Special Working Holiday.
- What this means for your wallet: There is no double pay. If you work tomorrow, you receive your regular daily wage.
- The Controversy: Critics argue that making the 40th anniversary a working day "dilutes" the historical significance of the revolution that ousted the current President's father.
#WalangPasok: The Growing List of Class Suspensions
Despite it being a "working day" nationally, dozens of schools and local governments have independently declared "Walang Pasok" to allow students and staff to participate in commemorations.
Key LGUs with No Classes/Work:
- Capas, Tarlac: Work and classes suspended at all levels.
- Biñan, Laguna: No classes in all levels (Public & Private).
- Paniqui, Tarlac: Classes and government work suspended.
Major Schools & Universities:
- University of Santo Tomas (UST): Classes and office work suspended.
- De La Salle Philippines (All Campuses): Classes and work suspended.
- UP Cebu: Classes suspended for the EDSA anniversary.
- Ateneo de Manila: Declared a "University Holiday."
The "Trillion Peso March": The Flood Control Scandal
The 40th anniversary isn't just about the past; it's about a 2026 crisis. Protesters are set to launch the third leg of the "Trillion Peso March" tomorrow, coinciding with the EDSA rites.
Why are they marching?
- Ghost Projects: The administration is reeling from a ₱79 billion scandal involving alleged "ghost" and incomplete flood control projects.
- The "Dry" Budget: While billions are missing elsewhere, the DPWH recently confirmed that Central Visayas (including Cebu) has zero locally funded flood control projects in the 2026 budget.
- The "Bagong People Power": Organizers like Kiko Aquino-Dee are calling for a new type of vigilance, using the EDSA spirit to demand accountability for these missing billions.
TrendWire Take: Tomorrow will be a test of "Protest Fatigue." With the ICC hearings also heating up, the streets of Quezon City and the EDSA Shrine will be under a microscope. Whether it's through rallies or social media "receipts," the power of the people is being redefined by the power of the data.
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