EDSA 25 Heroes: Making Filipinos proud

The typical EDSA heroes have commonly been those who died for freedom and democracy. But one need not die to be a hero.

On the 25th anniversary of the first people power uprising, abs-cbnNEWS.com picked 25 heroes who have not only helped advance the cause of freedom and democracy, but also individuals who have made Filipinos proud.

Though some of them have passed away, many of our EDSA 25th heroes are still alive, serving as shining examples of good citizenship and excellence in their respective fields.

We have deliberately excluded President Benigno S. Aquino III's late parents from our list, although we recognize the great contributions of Ninoy and Cory to advancing freedom and democracy in the Philippines.

Evelio Javier

Evelio: Hero of Antique, hero of the country - this was the theme of the province when they commemorated the 20th anniversary of Evelio Javier's death in 2006.

He became a governor at age 29, one of the youngest ever, he launched sustainable development and cultural programs for the province.

A leader of the opposition bloc in Antique against the Marcos regime during the snap presidential polls, he was brutally assassinated just days after the actual elections.

His funeral processions turned into large protest actions against Marcos which many cite as one of the events which led to the People Power Revoution.