How millennials protested on Sept 21 – from streets to social media

MANILA, Philippines – While thousands of Filipinos went on the streets on Thursday, September 21, to mark the declaration of Martial Law 45 years ago, some millennials chose to make noise on social media. 

Hashtags #NeverAgain, #ManlabanTayo, #DayofProtest, and #LunetaRally trended the whole day of September 21. 

Using social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, millennials were able to broadcast real-time the situation on the ground. They reported on events that they attended. 

Twitter user JP Tanyag said that he is proud being part of De La Salle University after the university hung on its facade a black cloth containing the words, “Stop the killings. Start the healing.” (READ: LOOK: Schools put up symbols of indignation on Martial Law anniversary) 

It makes me even more proud to be part of this institution. Animo! #EndTyranny #NeverAgain #DayofProtest
pic.twitter.com/unBVioqfuB

— JP Tanyag (@dumidyeypee) September 21, 2017

Another Twitter user posted a picture of the rally that he attended on Thursay, saying, “Ang sarap sa pakiramdam lumaban para sa bayan.” (It feels good fighting for the country)

Ang sarap sa pakiramdam lumaban para sa bayan! #DayofProtest #FightTyranny #ManlabanTayo #NeverAgain pic.twitter.com/i22S15cXAf

— Jeremy (@Baymaaaaaaxx) September 21, 2017

 

Some, even at home, showed their support for those who took to the streets despite the weather. 

Twitter user @niallmanila said he is proud of all the people who went to the Luneta.

everyone na nasa luneta or what right now, I’m so proud of you and thank you. #NeverAgain #DayofProtest

— ㅤㅤ‏ُ (@niallmanila) September 21, 2017

Around 6:30 pm on Thursday, “Luneta” topped the trending list on Twitter Philippines with over 10,000 organic tweets collected. 

Here are some tweets collated by MovePH from around the country: 

Martial Law at 45th – Curated tweets by jievensanti

On September 23, 1972, former president Ferdinand Marcos appeared on television and used Proclamation 1081, supposedly signed on September 21, to declare martial law nationwide. (READ: Marcos’ martial law orders)

During this dark period of Philippine history, the Philippines also incurred up to $24.4 billion in debt by 1982. (READ: Marcos years marked ‘golden age’ of PH economy? Look at the data)

President Duterte suspended government work and classes in public schools on Thursday, September 21, and ironically declared it a “National Day of Protest.” – Rappler.com