Anti-corruption protests spread to concerts, sports events as public anger grows

Filipinos are taking their anti-corruption protests beyond the streets—into concerts, sports events, and cultural gatherings.

In a 24 Oras report by Tina Panganiban-Perez, protest actions were seen during a local concert, a volleyball match, and even a Cinemalaya event, where Kapuso actor Mikoy Morales called out corrupt officials.

The public's outrage is reflected in recent surveys.

An OCTA Research poll shows 60% of Filipinos feel anger when thinking about corruption, while 30% feel fear and 9% sadness.

A Pulse Asia survey reveals 97% believe corruption is widespread, with 85% saying it worsened in the past year. Of those polled, 46% believe protests are effective, while 31% disagree and 23% are unsure.

More protests are planned this Friday according to organizers.

“Tuloy po tayo sa ating paglabas ng ating paglabas ng aming mga paaralan. Dito sa Metro Manila, decisively, lalabas po ang mga schools sa U-belt at mag converge matungo Mendiola,” Kabataan party-list Rep. Renee Co said.

(We will continue to protest outside our schools. U-Belt schools will converge in Mendiola.)

The Trillion Peso March Movement is urging Filipinos to wear white every Friday and display white ribbons at home and in vehicles.

“Yung hindi makarating sa EDSA Shrine o yung mga nasa probinsya, mayroong kanya-kanyang parokya na sumasabay rito ng same activities and same actions all around the Philippines,” said Atty. Howard Calleja, spokesperson of the Trillion Peso March Movement.

(For those who can’t join in EDSA or those who are in the provinces, parishes across the country will hold similar actions.)

A nationwide march is set for November 30, demanding accountability, the return of stolen public funds, and full transparency.

Calleja said releasing officials’ Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALNs) is not enough.

“Parang hindi naiibsan ang galit. Dahil nga katulad nitong sa ICI. humihingi tayo ng transparency… vis a vis their desire for security and confidentiality,” he said.

(Public anger remains. We demand transparency, especially in cases like the Independent Commission for Infrastructure issue.) —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News