The National Historical Commission of the Philippines present Kasaysayan 1-on-1 (History 1-on-1), a podcast interview series on Philippine History, Cultural Heritage, and the people and institutions that shaped our nation.
For the 1st episode of this series and in commemoration of the 53rd Anniversary of the Declaration of Martial Law by President Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr., in September 1972, we talk with Mr. Volt Bohol and Mr. Bien Gonzales of the August Twenty-One Movement (ATOM).
Founded in September 1983, weeks following the assassination of democracy icon and staunch Marcos opponent Senator Beningno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr., ATOM sought to organize the Filipino people who were awakening to the harsh realities of the dictatorship and mobilize to call for justice for all victims of Martial Law. The organization became one of the most prominent civil society organizations that fought for democracy during the tumultuous 1980s. They were also one of the first to mobilize during the 1986 People Power Revolution.
This interview was conducted on 4 August 2025 at the NHCP Museo El Deposito in San Juan City, Metro Manila. It was recorded by Vincent Manalo (NHCP Photographer) and the interview was facilitated by Ferdinan Gregorio, Mercury Rocamora, and Joyce Vedasto (NHCP Researchers). Logistical support was provided by Jonel Rabusa (NHCP Museo El Deposito), Geraldine Gentozala, and Aaron Syyap (NHCP Communications). Mr. Bohol & Mr. Gonzales were informed of their rights as key informants. This video may be used for educational purposes.