‘Trillion Peso March’: 100,000 Filipinos Rally to Denounce Corruption and Demand systemic Reform
MANILA – Over 100,000 Filipinos mobilized in Manila and other major cities on September 21st, participating in demonstrations dubbed the “Trillion Peso March” to protest widespread government corruption and demand accountability. The rallies coincided with the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, serving as a stark reminder of past abuses and a call to prevent their recurrence.
The protests were sparked by recent investigations into alleged fraud and collusion surrounding flood control projects. These investigations have revealed potential kickbacks totaling over $30 billion from infrastructure and flood control funds, implicating contractors, government workers, and potentially members of the Senate and Congress.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. acknowledged corruption in public works as a contributing factor to the country’s devastating floods during his State of the Nation Address, vowing to hold those found guilty accountable. The ongoing investigations are attempting to substantiate these allegations.
Demonstrators are calling for justice for past corruption and demanding systemic reforms to address what they describe as a deeply ingrained culture of corruption that has hindered the nation’s progress for generations.
Faith leaders played a prominent role in the demonstrations, encouraging Christian participation and offering spiritual support. Bishop Efraim Tendero, Global Ambassador of the World Evangelical Alliance, emphasized the obligation of citizens to speak out against wrongdoing, stating that government is ”instituted by God to promote good and restrain evil.” Bishop noel Pantoja, National Director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, drew parallels to the American Civil Rights Movement, expressing hope for a similar transformation in the Philippines.
Beyond immediate accountability, protesters are urging president Marcos Jr. and his family to lead by example and return funds allegedly obtained through corrupt practices. The “Trillion Peso March” represents a broad-based demand for transparency, good governance, and an end to the cycle of corruption that Filipinos believe has long plagued their nation.
