They were chastised for not learning history, blamed for the near-victory of the dictator's son, dismissed as frivolous and unconcerned, branded the Me-generation. But when the stealth and hurried burial of Ferdinand Marcos' remains happened, the millennial generation came out in force and joined the protest rallies. With their homemade placards and their millennial-speak, they amused, baffled (what does that placard mean, was a common question from the boomer generation) and ultimately moved their elders to tears. Because their presence by the thousands were unexpected and absolutely inspiring. Because the aging generation -- many already disabled though not cowed -- may now be able to stay back and pass the torch for a new generation to carry on.