Statement of Solidarity on the Anniversary of Martial Law

Today, we remember September 21, 1972—not simply as a date in history, but as a wound that still echoes across generations. It was on this day that Martial Law was declared, silencing voices, curbing freedoms, and attempting to twist the truth of a people’s struggle to the will of power. It was meant to erase resistance, but instead it ignited it. From the streets of Manila to the farthest provinces, the people rose up. They endured prison, exile, and violence, but they refused to surrender their dignity.

That spirit of defiance lives on. The Filipino people have always known how to resist. Time and again, they have risen against corruption, against authoritarianism, against the idea that government exists to serve the few at the expense of the many. The history of the Philippines is not the story of dictators—it is the story of a people who never stopped fighting for freedom.

Now, as corruption scandals and broken promises once again fuel the anger of millions, we see history’s rhyme. Students, workers, church leaders, artists, and everyday citizens take to the streets—not in despair, but in defiance. They march for accountability. They march for dignity. They march for a future where public service means service to the public, and where government serves the people—not itself.

And to those watching from afar, know this: their struggle is not isolated. It is connected to every fight against inequality and injustice across the world—from Manila to Kathmandu, from Jakarta to every place where ordinary people refuse to be silent.

“We will not kneel to corruption. We will not be silent in the face of tyranny. The people’s power is greater than the greed of the few. And let it be clear: our liberation will not be handed down by the powerful—it will be seized by the people, in the streets, in our communities, in every act of resistance. When we rise together, no regime, no dictator, no corrupt system can withstand the force of our collective will.” — RJ Aquino

 We, Filipino BC, stand shoulder to shoulder with the Filipino people. We honour the memory of those who resisted dictatorship, and we affirm the courage of those who resist corruption today. Their voices remind us that democracy is not given—it is claimed, protected, and renewed by each generation willing to demand better.

 As we mark this anniversary, let us say clearly: we will not forget. We will not be silenced. And together—with the strength of history behind us and the promise of justice ahead—we will continue the struggle for a freer, more honest, more humane society.

Mabuhay ang sambayanang lumalaban.

In solidarity & struggle,

RJ Aquino | Chair Filipino BC

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Banner Photo Credits:
Lisa Marie David/Reuters @lisamariedav
Jilson Tiu @jilson.tiu