THOUSANDS OF FILIPINOS PROTEST AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thousands of Filipinos have paraded in the capital of the North of Philippines with the objective of addressing corruption in government infrastructure projects, particularly in flood control. It was roughly 1.9 trillion pesos (approximately $ 33 billion) which had been used over the past 15 year , reportedly lost to corruption.

The “Trillion Peso March” was the slogan of the protest, held on September 21, 2025 which coincided with the anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines on September 21, 1972. This protest was organized by various groups: Church groups, civil society organizations, student organizations, labor unions, and political coalitions. It is a call for accountability and transparency in the government. The protesters gathered at Luneta Park in the morning and in the afternoon was at People Power Monument, Edsa, Manila.

It was intended for a day of prayer graced by leaders of other Christian denominations and the Islam. The president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Pablo Virgilio Cardinal “Ambo” David, was also present. His presence assured everyone that the Church remains a sign of hope amid the country’s chaotic situations, that it stands for truth and justice.

In his inspiring message, Cardinal “Ambo” reminded the Catholic faithful, saying:” The event is not a political spectacle but a moral stand; we must resist opportunists who exploit our outrage for selfish gain. He added that beyond the stolen money, corruption in the flood control projects is also” about stolen futures: flooded homes, poisoned lands, and wasted opportunities for our children.”He also included in his message, reminding the priests and religious people to live in transparency and accountability, and live a simple life.

I was among the thousands of Filipinos at EDSA who shouted: “Tama na! Ikulong na ang mga kurakot.” (Enough is enough! Put the corrupt officials in jail). Living my missionary identity and sense of belonging to humanity, I let my voice be heard through my presence at the event. Even though I am a foreigner and I was not safe, I took courage to be there with the people. I believe love is greater than fear.I went with Sr. Rosa Maria Angeles and our sisters from Makati were there too, but, due to the crowd, we didn’t see each other.

I have chosen the best part because the experience was priceless and unrepeatable. I was in awe, gazing at the many thousands of faces, both young and old, wearing white, all desiring and hoping for a change in the government and to have a better life. Considering the Philippines as my second home, in my heart, I believe that one day God will transform the hearts of these greedy people to be more concerned and care for their own people, especially the poor. One day, there will be a better Philippines. We all hope for that one day.

Oftentimes, we hear why the Philippines, as a Catholic country in Asia, is the most corrupt country. The question tells the reality. The corrupt officials are a few elites in the country. However, through the protest, I witnessed that the Filipinos, especially the ordinary people, are not afraid to witness their faith and to fight for truth and justice. It was a peaceful yet powerful rally that I have ever seen. I can testify that Filipinos love peace than conflict; they choose unity over division.

Some people question: Will there be a change after this protest?

A Filipino journalist and sociologist raised an important question: What would Rizal advise in the face of protest and calls for change? Jose Rizal, regarded as the first Filipino hero, emphasized that freeing ourselves from present oppression risks future tyranny unless we undertake personal and moral transformation. He challenged us to re-educate ourselves, arguing that nation-building requires more than updating Constitutions or changing leaders; it begins with moral intuition. Cardinal Ambo David echoed this, adding that spiritual growth and conscience are essential, or else independence may only disguise oppression with a new face.

The change will happen sooner or later. We cannot expect instant results because it is a process. The most important thing is that we don’t remain silent in the midst of injustices happening in our countries. We are called to be prophets in our times. Let us  be the voice of the suffering brothers and sisters.

Above all, we trust in the God who walks with us in our history.  A God who listens to the suffering of His people: “The LORD said, ‘I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt, and I have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sufferings.’ ( Ex. 3:7) and His justice will prevail as it is stated in Psalm 94:15: “For justice will prevail, and all the morally upright will be vindicated.”

Sr. Maria de Fatima Pui