Philippine People Power Movement
By Alexandra DeVito
Infographic Description
This infographic is a broad overview of the events of the Philippine People Power Movement. It describes the biggest factors that propelled the movement forward to the success it accomplished. The movement, which lasted two years from start to finish, was created with the goal of ousting Marcos from power. The resistance had advantages such as a diverse member base and a possible political opponent to replace Marcos. The movement was a relatively short one compared to those we have studied in class and most of its action happened in a two day period. This two day period was where Marcos was ousted from power and, with the help of the U.S, brought to an island with his family where he sought refuge. While the movement achieved its goals, the country still remains in an economic stronghold by the wealthy. The poor do not have opportunities and the wealthy are able to propel forward to create their own opportunities and live a comfortable lifestyle. |
The success of a nonviolent movement cannot be accredited to one specific factor. As research has shown it takes a combination of mobilization, participation, inclusiveness, allies, legitimacy, and organization. When deciding what to write about on this topic it became apparent that this movement somehow had all of these elements incorporated. With such a short amount of time they implemented highly organized details into their cause and successfully achieved their goals. Practically every move they made rendered them legitimate and aided in the dwindling validity of Marcos. From their strategically implemented ideologies of nonviolence to their high participation rates they had all of the elements necessary for success.
Their mobilization efforts were not just a primary move. They lasted from the moment the movement began to the time they inaugurated Aquino into office. The dedication they displayed to the mobilization efforts paid off as they were able to attract the support of a large and diverse group of people from average citizens, regime defectors, and Catholic church leaders. Their diverse member base gave them an edge in taking down the Marcos regime as it was not just one group of people who wanted him out of office. They were able to attract such a large following with their inclusive characteristics. They were easily approachable and did not pose any moral or physical barriers for those who could be hesitant on joining. There were no commitment requirements and help was accepted anywhere they could take it. With such a group of different backgrounds uniting against a cause, their participation rates rose into the millions. With higher participation rates you can expect to be successful. The element of resistance to centralization also enabled them to be successful. With no centralization the group gave no authority to one single person. This made it impossible for the regime to attempt to topple the movement as they could not take out one leader. Their allies also proved to be another driving force behind their success, specifically the alliance made with Aquino. Having a well-respected political member with relationships to those in government join the group, sent a threatening message to the regime. Furthermore, having her step up as a potential replacement for Marcos gave the regime a direct threat that places an enormous amount of pressure on him. Having a potential replacement also made it easier to mobilize as people were more likely to join if they saw they could lend their support to someone willing to take over office once they took down Marcos. All of the steps they took rendered them as legitimate and serious. This above all else is the most important factor in nonviolent movements. Proving yourself to be the superior force against the regime is the ultimate deciding factor on whether or not a movement will be successful. The Philippine People Power Movement proved their legitimacy and they were able to achieve their goals. |
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