MANILA, Philippines — Tens of thousands of Filipinos converged on Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) on Bonifacio Day to join the second “Trillion Peso March,” a nationwide protest against corruption in government flood control projects. Organizers said the mass action drew between 30,000 and 50,000 participants in Metro Manila, with simultaneous rallies staged in provincial cities from Cebu to Bukidnon, backed by 86 dioceses nationwide.
In Manila, protesters began their march at the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas. They proceeded southward along EDSA, culminating at the People Power Monument in Quezon City, a symbolic site of past democratic uprisings. The route was chosen to evoke the spirit of the 1986 People Power Revolution, underscoring the demand for accountability in today’s governance.
Lawmakers Join the Call
Several opposition lawmakers joined the protest to amplify demands for accountability. Akbayan party-list Rep. Chel Diokno told the crowd: “The administrations of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte owe good governance to the Filipino people. We cannot allow corruption to continue unchecked while communities drown in floods and poverty.”
Rep. Leila de Lima, herself a former justice secretary, emphasized the need for systemic reform: “This is not just about one scandal. It is about a culture of impunity that robs our people of dignity and resources. We march today to demand transparency and justice.”
Rep. Percy Saldaña added, “We are here to represent the voices of ordinary Filipinos who suffer when public funds are stolen. Every peso lost to corruption is a classroom not built, a hospital not equipped, a flood barrier not completed.”
Organizers deliberately limited the stage to senatorial incumbents, saying the event was meant to highlight grassroots voices and the accountability of sitting officials.
Issues at the Heart of the Protest
The rally centered on five key demands:
- Full accountability for senior officials implicated in the flood control scandal.
- Transparency in government procurement and infrastructure spending.
- Stronger anti-corruption safeguards across agencies.
- Protection of whistleblowers and investigative journalists.
- Assurance that stolen funds are recovered and redirected to public services.
Protesters also voiced broader frustrations with political dynasties and the lack of accountability in governance. Caritas Philippines, the advocacy arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, declared: “Expose the criminals, return the people’s money, lock up the corrupt, and give a win to the Filipino people.”
Civic and Cultural Voices
The march was not limited to politicians. Former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno led an interfaith prayer, calling corruption “a moral wound that must be healed through truth and justice.” Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, recognized as one of the country’s top taxpayers, delivered remarks urging young Filipinos to “stand for integrity and demand better from leaders.”
Former Vice President Leni Robredo, now mayor of Naga City, joined mobilizations in her hometown, telling supporters: “We must continue to fight for accountability wherever we are. This is not just Manila’s struggle—it is the nation’s.”
Nationwide Solidarity
From Bacolod to Baguio, Davao to Legazpi, thousands joined parallel rallies. In Cebu City, Archbishop Alberto Uy urged parishioners to “wake up because our nation is being victimized by thieves.” In Bukidnon, residents gathered for a unity Mass before marching through Malaybalay City. In Bacolod, protesters chanted “Jail the thieves” as they marched downtown.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assured participants of safety, with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stating: “Our mandate remains clear: protect every life, respect every voice, and uphold the rule of law at all times.” Police reported the rallies were largely peaceful, with participants “exercising their rights with discipline”.
Administration Reaction
The Marcos administration acknowledged the demonstrations but emphasized that investigations into the flood control scandal were “ongoing” and urged the public to “allow due process.” Some officials downplayed the protests, calling them politically motivated, while opposition lawmakers insisted the march reflected genuine public outrage.
Malacañang expressed satisfaction over the largely peaceful rallies across the country, underscoring the administration’s commitment to protecting citizens’ right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez said the government continues to uphold these democratic rights while monitoring the demonstrations to ensure order is maintained.
Security Deployment and Incidents
The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed thousands of officers across Metro Manila and provincial rally sites. Security forces coordinated with church groups and civic organizers to maintain order. Police reported the rallies were largely peaceful, with participants exercising discipline and restraint.
Authorities noted no major security breaches. Minor incidents included scuffles between protesters and counter-demonstrators, but these were quickly contained. No arrests or violent dispersals were reported, a contrast to past mass protests where clashes were more common.
Organizers Warn of More Actions
Kiko Aquino Dee, one of the convenors, said the group is prepared for a third Trillion-Peso March if investigations continue, to avoid confronting senior officials. “It’s a little worrisome… so if that sort of attitude continues, then it is right to have the third edition,” Dee told ANC. He noted inconsistent government signals about the alleged involvement of Speaker Martin Romualdez, saying inquiries so far have focused only on minor officials and contractors.
The Fight is Far From Over
The November 30 “Trillion Peso March” underscored the growing public anger over corruption and the demand for accountability at the highest levels of government. With lawmakers, civic leaders, and church groups joining forces, the protest signaled a broad coalition determined to ensure that the trillion-peso flood control scandal does not fade into bureaucratic obscurity. As Rep. Diokno told the crowd, “If the big fish are not jailed, expect us back on the streets. This fight is far from over.”
