25/02/2026
A message from the late Bro. Rolando Dizon, FSC to the class of 1987 (1 year after EDSA People Power)
My dear graduates,
Undoubtedly the most significant event in our recent history was the brutal slaying of Ninoy Aquino in 1983. For many of us that single event marked the beginning of our political awakening. From initial shock and anger, our battle cry became "Sobra na, tama na, palitan na!" Without our knowing it, the seeds of People Power had been sown.
After we had given vent to our anger through mass demonstrations and rallies, we realized that clenched fists and screaming multitudes were not enough to topple an entrenched regime. We had to organize, and organize we did. Cause-oriented groups mushroomed all throughout the archipelago, first in Manila then all over the provinces.
By late 1983 Namfrel was ready to be born. In the face of overwhelming odds, a handful of us decided to light our candles, motivated only by one common desire: to give democracy one more chance. Embracing an idea whose time had finally come, thousands joined us and to our great surprise the reward was a significant opposition minority in the Batasang Pambansa.
Still the dictatorship refused to be toppled, at least not just yet. But things were different. There were enough of us who knew there was no turning back. We were committed to the irreversible struggle to transform Philippine society through active non-violence. Thus, when the 1986 snap elections were called we were ready. Despite pressures from Malacanang and Comelec, Namfrel and other groups were there to fight for clean and honest elections. And we won! It took two more weeks before we could finally claim victory through the EDSA Revolution, but when the time finally came, we were ready. People power, brought to life by Ninoy's blood and nourished by a nation that refused to be cowed any longer, gave us back our freedom, pride and dignity as a people.
The challenge for the Class of 1987 is to go one step further, namely, to build a new Philippines where the quality of life of every Filipino will be so improved that he can truly enjoy good health, adequate housing, a good job, and a peaceful life. Your Lasallian education has prepared you to meet this challenge, but ultimately, the choice to serve God and country lies solely with you. I pray that you will choose wisely and bravely.
Your friend and brother,
BROTHER ROLANDO DIZON, FSC
President (1986-1998)
University of St. La Salle
