September 23, 1972: The Martial Law

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 21^st.

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.

Vote Puerto Princesa Underground River As One Of The New 7 Wonders Of Nature!

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world's longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water's edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave. – New7Wonders Website

So to Filipino’s and non-Filipinos all over the world, please vote for this God’s amazing creation to be part of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. You can choose 7 out of the 28 wonders of nature. Just log in to this website New7Wonders and vote! You can also vote thru text, just key in PPUR to 2861 – (open for Sun, Globe and Smart users and each text costs P2.00 for Sun and P2.50 for Globe and Smart)

Let’s do this!

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