Philippine History 1985 President marcos improved

During democracy

1. The Philippines in 1985: A
Nation on the Brink
1985 marked a pivotal year in Philippine history, a time when deep-seated
economic and political issues coalesced into a powerful force for change. The
nation, grappling with an economic crisis, simmered under the rule of
President Ferdinand Marcos, who faced increasing dissent and international
condemnation. This presentation will delve into the key events and factors
that propelled the Philippines to the brink of a major transformation.
by Seram Lee

2. The Economic Crisis Deepens
External Debt and Declining Prices
The Philippines was saddled with a massive external debt,
accumulated through decades of borrowing for infrastructure
and development projects. The global recession in the 1980s
compounded the problem, leading to a decline in the prices of
major export commodities, such as sugar and coconut, further
straining the economy.
Capital Flight and Economic Collapse
As the economic situation worsened, investors lost confidence
in the Philippine economy, leading to a massive capital flight.
This further intensified the crisis, resulting in an inflation rate
reaching 50.3% in 1985 and a contraction of the GDP by 7.3%.
The average Filipino citizen bore the brunt of the crisis, facing
rising unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.

3. Political Opposition Gains
Momentum
The assassination of Benigno
"Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a
prominent opposition leader,
in 1983 ignited a wave of
anger and dissent across the
country. His widow, Corazon
Aquino, emerged as a
unifying figure, galvanizing
the opposition movement.
Other influential figures like
Salvador Laurel and
numerous opposition leaders
joined forces, forming
coalitions like the United
Nationalist Democratic
Organization (UNIDO) to
challenge Marcos's grip on
power.
The opposition's momentum grew with each passing day, gaining
significant public support, making it clear that the Marcos regime was
facing its most formidable challenge yet.

4. The Marcos Regime Under
Pressure
The international community, spurred by reports of human rights abuses
and rampant corruption, increasingly pressured the Marcos regime. US
Congress threatened to cut off aid, expressing concern over the
deteriorating human rights situation.
Human rights organizations like Amnesty International issued reports
detailing widespread torture, extrajudicial killings, and the silencing of
dissenting voices. The Agrava Commission report, released in 1984,
implicated high-ranking military officials in Ninoy Aquino's
assassination, further fueling public anger and international scrutiny.

5. The Snap Elections
Announced
1
Faced with mounting pressure, both domestically and
internationally, Marcos announced snap elections in late 1985,
hoping to regain legitimacy and quell the growing unrest. The
decision was influenced by pressure from the Reagan
administration and other allies who sought to stabilize the
situation in the Philippines.
2
The elections were scheduled for February 7, 1986. The
announcement sparked a sense of hope and anticipation
among the Filipino people, as they saw an opportunity to
finally break free from the Marcos regime. The nation braced
itself for a momentous event that would define its future.

6. Military Dissension and
Reform Attempts
The Armed Forces of the Philippines
(AFP), plagued by corruption and
cronyism, was a fertile ground for
dissent. Many officers, disillusioned
with the Marcos regime's practices,
sought reform within the military.
The Reform the Armed Forces
Movement (RAM), led by officers like
Fidel V. Ramos, emerged as a
significant force for change. RAM
members were critical of Marcos's
leadership and sought to reform the
AFP, addressing issues of low
morale, inadequate equipment, and
delayed promotions.

7. Societal Unrest and
Demonstrations
1
The people of the Philippines, from various walks of life,
organized widespread protests and demonstrations. The
Catholic Church, led by Cardinal Sin, played a crucial role in
mobilizing public opinion, speaking out against human rights
abuses and calling for change.
2
Labor strikes and student activism became more frequent
and impactful, showcasing the depth of the dissatisfaction
with Marcos's rule. The rallies commemorating Ninoy
Aquino's death anniversary became significant events,
drawing massive crowds and reaffirming the desire for a
democratic Philippines.

8. Conclusion: The Tipping
Point
The year 1985 was a turning point in Philippine history. The convergence of
the economic crisis, the rise of political opposition, international pressure,
and societal unrest created a volatile atmosphere. The stage was set for the
momentous events of 1986, including the snap elections and the People
Power Revolution, which would ultimately bring down the Marcos regime and
usher in a new era of democracy. 1985 marked the year the Philippines
reached a tipping point, where the collective will of the people would finally
break the chains of authoritarian rule.