Walang Pasok became a major update for students and parents across the Philippines after schools and local government units declared no classes on February 25. The suspension was in observance of the 40th anniversary of the historic Edsa People Power Revolution.
Although the national government declared February 25 as a special working holiday, many schools decided to suspend classes. Some also shifted to asynchronous or alternative learning activities to allow students to reflect on the significance of the day.
As someone who has covered education updates before, I have noticed that historic anniversaries often lead to different decisions at the school level. This time, many institutions chose reflection over regular classroom lessons.
Why February 25 Is Important in Philippine History
February 25 marks the anniversary of the People Power Revolution, a peaceful uprising in 1986 that restored democracy in the Philippines.
Millions of Filipinos gathered along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Metro Manila to protest against the rule of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr..
The four-day protest ended on February 25, 1986. It became one of the most well-known peaceful revolutions in the world. This year marks its 40th anniversary, making it a major milestone.
Why There Was Walang Pasok Despite a Special Working Holiday
Many people asked: If February 25 was only a special working holiday, why was there Walang Pasok?
The answer is simple. Schools and LGUs have the authority to suspend classes within their institutions or areas. While offices may continue work under a special working holiday, schools may decide differently based on their values and plans.
Some institutions declared:
- Full class suspension
- Day of reflection
- Alternative learning day
- Asynchronous classes
These actions allowed students to observe the anniversary in meaningful ways.
Schools That Declared Walang Pasok
Several schools and universities across the country announced class suspension or flexible learning setup for February 25.
Here are some of the institutions that declared Walang Pasok or alternative learning:
- Adamson University
- University of Santo Tomas
- University of the Philippines (Alternative learning day)
- San Beda University
- Far Eastern University (Alternative learning day)
- Miriam College (Day of Reflection)
- University of the East
- De La Salle Philippines
Other schools that shifted to asynchronous classes include:
- Holy Angel University
- Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite
- University of San Jose Recoletos
- Lourdes School of Quezon City
- Lourdes School of Mandaluyong
Many other private schools across Metro Manila and nearby provinces also made similar announcements.
LGU That Declared Walang Pasok
At the local government level, Capas, Tarlac suspended classes in public elementary and secondary schools. Work in local government offices was also suspended.
Local officials made this decision to allow residents and students to observe the Edsa anniversary.
The Importance of Remembering Edsa After 40 Years
Forty years is a long time. Some students today were not even born when the People Power Revolution happened.
This is why events like Walang Pasok on February 25 matter. They give young Filipinos a chance to:
- Learn about democracy
- Understand the impact of Martial Law
- Reflect on freedom and human rights
- Appreciate peaceful protest
In my experience, history becomes more meaningful when we pause and reflect. A simple class suspension can turn into a powerful lesson.
Difference Between Regular Holiday and Special Working Holiday
Many parents were confused about the holiday type. Here is a simple explanation:
- Regular Holiday – No work, usually paid. Higher pay for those who work.
- Special Working Holiday – Work continues. Normal pay rules apply.
Since February 25 was a special working holiday, class suspension depended on school decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why was there Walang Pasok on February 25?
Schools and LGUs suspended classes to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution.
Was February 25 a regular holiday?
No. It was declared a special working holiday by the government.
Did all schools suspend classes?
No. Some schools continued learning through alternative or asynchronous methods.
Which LGU declared suspension?
Capas, Tarlac suspended classes in public elementary and secondary schools.
What is Edsa 40?
Edsa 40 refers to the 40th anniversary of the 1986 People Power Revolution.
Walang Pasok on February 25 was not just about having a day off. It was about honoring a historic event that shaped the Philippines.
As schools and LGUs declared no classes, they reminded students of the value of democracy and unity. The 40th anniversary of Edsa is a moment to look back at history and think about the future.
If you are a student, how did you spend February 25? Did you use the day to learn more about Edsa? Moments like this help us stay aware of our nation’s story.
