“He shall deceive those he can deceive and he shall attack those he cannot deceive with

the force of the reactionary state”

“First Quarter Storm of 1970” was published by Silangan Publishers on 1970 in
Manila. The book did not indicate an author or an editor, however “The Editors” was
mentioned in the introduction.
This book was about the time of Philippine history when the patriotic youth
emerged, started a revolution and made way for a national democracy. It was a period of
mass activism, rally, marches, protests in the Philippines. The historic event paved way
for the public to notice the role of Communist Party of the Philippines in the mass
movement. The event happened in January to March 1970, thus, the First Quarter of
1970.
The line stated above stuck to me the most because it illustrates how powerful
Marcos was that time. It basically states that he can and will do anything for power. As
an example, during his time many journalists, reporters, students, basically any one who
voice out a single comment disapproving him, was abducted, killed, or tortured. A single
comment is enough for you to get in jail and get you abused or killed.
According to Marcos, when he proclaimed Martial Law, the country was plunging
to chaos and on the verge of tearing apart, and claimed that the law is for the good of the
nation. But looking back, Martial Law was imposed to neutralize and extinguish Marcos’
enemies. This is what kind of power he sought.
In my opinion, looking back to these events is relevant in the present. The historic
actions led by youth organizations, and other organizations that time is inspiring. Today,
it may not look like it was as terrifying as Marcos’ regime but we have our battles that we
must win in the present admin. We must not forget how Duterte’s admin, shutdown ABS-
CBN, the passing of Terror Bill, EJK, etc. It is important, specially for the youth, to let
their voice be heard because we really are the future of this country. We must fight for
our rights and stand for justice because 50 years ago today, our rights had been abused
and our country had been crippled.