Redefining Three Moments of “Necessary Trouble” in the Philippines

18th Tsai Lecture

A Three-part Lecture Series by Professor Ed Garcia, Filipino Peace Practitioner; Framer of the 1987 Philippine Constitution

Day 1: Struggle Against Dictatorship

The first lecture deals with watershed events in the Philippines that shaped the country’s future: the 'First Quarter Storm' of the 1970s, the declaration of martial law by Marcos, Sr., who turned from president to dictator, the repressive regime unleashed in 1972, and the assassination of the opposition leader, Senator Ninoy Aquino. From the perspective of a participant observer, this lecture describes the People Power experience that brought down the conjugal dictatorship and analyzes its aftermath.

The lecture concludes with an assessment of the 1986 Philippine Constitution, which aimed to provide a blueprint for a more humane society. The narration also identifies valuable lessons from experience on the ground, identifying shortcomings and strengths in the attempts undertaken to build a better society. The aim in this first lecture is to shed light on possible paths forward that are relevant to countries facing similar situations.

See information on the entire series here. 

IN-PERSON EVENT. Also, live-streamed via Asia Center's YouTube channel.