Part 2: The raid, the Catholic Church, EDSA and beyond

In February 1986, the EDSA People Power Revolution marked a turning point in Philippine history, culminating in the peaceful ousting of President Ferdinand Marcos and his regime. This nonviolent uprising, which drew millions onto the streets, was deeply influenced by the earlier activism of the Catholic Church, particularly highlighted by the 1983 Sacred Heart Novitiate raid. That raid, which targeted members of the religious order suspected of opposing the Marcos dictatorship, became a catalyst for broader resistance and played a key role in shaping the Church's engagement in the subsequent revolution. The raid occurred amid the height of Martial Law, a period characterized by widespread repression, censorship, and human rights abuses. The Sacred Heart Novitiate, located in Quezon City, was raided by military forces, resulting in the detention of several priests and laypeople. These individuals were accused of subversion and faced harsh treatment, including torture and forced disappearances. The incident sparked outrage within both the Church and wider society, drawing attention to the systemic violence of the Marcos administration and galvanizing opposition to the regime. Twelve years later, the EDSA Revolution emerged as a powerful expression of civilian-led resistance. During this time, tens of thousands of activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens had been subjected to similar forms of repression. Many had been detained, tortured, or even killed for challenging the authority of the ruling elite. The Church, particularly figures like Cardinal Jaime Sin and Archbishop Socrates Villegas, played a central role in mobilizing public sentiment against the dictatorship. Cardinal Sin, known for his unwavering stance against oppression, used his influence to encourage Filipinos to resist through peaceful means. Cardinal Sin’s advocacy for nonviolence resonated with the growing movement toward democracy. His calls for civic action inspired a wave of protests, strikes, and demonstrations that ultimately led to the downfall of the Marcos regime. The success of the EDSA Revolution demonstrated the power of collective action and the potential for nonviolent resistance to bring about profound political change. It also underscored the Church’s role as a moral and organizational force in advocating for justice and human dignity. The legacy of these events continued to shape Philippine politics and society long after the fall of the Marcos regime. In recent years, the Church has remained a prominent player in addressing historical injustices and promoting reconciliation. A notable example is the establishment of the 2026 Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which seeks to uncover the truths behind the atrocities committed during the Duterte administration’s drug war. This initiative, supported by civil and religious organizations, mirrors the principles of the EDSA Revolution, peaceful yet determined, rooted in grassroots mobilization. The commission, advised by Cardinal Pablo Virgilio “Ambo” David, reflects the ongoing relevance of the Church’s role in advocating for transparency and accountability. Just as the EDSA Revolution relied on the participation of ordinary citizens, the current effort emphasizes the importance of community-driven initiatives in confronting past wrongs. Meanwhile, the memory of the Sacred Heart Novitiate raid endures among those who lived through it. Fifty-two years after the raid, former detainees, now in their seventies, continue to share their experiences. Their accounts reveal the trauma of being caught in a political conflict they had little control over. Some describe feeling abandoned after their release, left to navigate life without official recognition or support. Others emphasize the resilience required to survive and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of such violence. These reflections highlight the enduring emotional and psychological toll of political repression. They also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical narratives and ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard. As the nation moves forward, the lessons of the past remain vital in guiding its democratic aspirations and ethical commitments.