Martial law is defined as the imposition of military rule by military authorities over designated regions on an emergency basis—usually only temporary—when the civilian government or civilian authorities fail to function effectively (e.g., maintain order and security, and provide essential services), when there are extensive riots and protests, or when the disobedience of the law becomes widespread. In most cases, military forces are deployed to quiet the crowds, to secure government buildings and key or sensitive locations, and to maintain order.
Okay, I am not going to write anything so in-depth about the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines. I think it’s just way monumental to remember how this proclamation by then President Ferdinand Marcos led to one of the most historical events in the world, the EDSA People Power in 1986. I was just born a year ago when the first people power happened so I do not have any memories about it but my parents were telling stories about the Martial Law, the curfew, the killings and all. I mean, it’s not like they’re involved or something– they probably just heard it as well since they are not that affected in the province for some reason.
With that being said, you should know that this was not the first time that Martial Law was proclaimed and implemented in the country. On August 30, 1986, Governor General Ramon Blanco declared martial law, which covered the eight provinces that declared war against the Spaniards namely Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas and Nueva Ecija. These eight provinces now represents the rays of the sun in the Philippine Flag.
And in 1944 during the Japanese occupancy, President Jose P. Laurel placed the Philippines under martial law dated September 21st.
President Ferdinand Marcos, hailed as the longest serving President of the country declared the martial law in 1972 to 1981. This proclamation led to human rights abuses by the government that led to rebellion by the people that eventually proclaimed the late President Corazon Aquino atop the presidency.
Now that the country is under a free republic, have we really escaped the ghost of martial law? Think about it.
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