Bayan: 'Rabid' pro-Duterte personalities 'not welcome' at White Ribbon March

The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) on Saturday said fierce supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte and his family are not welcome at the White Ribbon Movement March against corruption on June 28.

In a statement posted on the eve of the protest action, BAYAN said that although it was ready to work with all who seek accountability over corruption, they "will not be distracted" by those who seek to use the event for their own agendas.

"The rabid pro-Duterte personalities who expressed their intent to join the march are advised to respect the integrity of the space we are building in our struggle for truth, accountability, and justice. YOU ARE NOT WELCOME HERE," the statement read.

The group warned of individuals who "wish to hijack" the march as a "platform to whitewash the crimes of notorious plunderers and political clans."

Major religious organizations and various civil society groups announced last week that they will hold the White Ribbon Movement March at the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City. Saying that they do not favor any political group, organizers had said they are united in their rallying cry: "Lahat ng sangkot, dapat managot! (All of those involved should be held accountable!)"

Politicians regardless of affiliation may join, but will not be allowed to speak during the program, Kidapawan Bishop Colin Bagaforo of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Episcopal Commission on Interreligious Dialogue had said during the movement's launch.

Linking arms

Saying it is part of the White Ribbon March, however, BAYAN stressed that the movement's proponents have worked hard to build a united, common stance against corruption.

"We cannot link arms with those who consistently resort to disinformation not just to protect the corrupt but also to malign and undermine the efforts of anti-corruption advocates," BAYAN said.

In a separate post labeled as the official statement of the White Ribbon March organizers, Sanlakas indicated an exception to those who would be welcome at the rally.

"Our march is non-partisan and clearly against dynasties and corruption. Hence, citizens who stand against dynasties and corruption and for electoral reform and good governance are welcome, but not those affiliated with corrupt dynasties," the statement read.

"We call upon corrupt politicians and their supporters to repent and reflect on their roles in reducing the public funds available for social services. Kasama sila sa dahilan kung bakit naghihirap ang bayan kaya dapat magbagong-buhay na sila at mapanagot sila (They are part of the reason why our nation is suffering, so that's why they should change their ways and be made accountable for their acts)," it added.

Full security

As this developed, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced late Saturday afternoon that "full security" was now in effect in Metro Manila ahead of June 28 protest.

In a statement, the NCRPO said 9,602 personnel have been strategically deployed in the Philippine capital "to ensure the ensure the orderly conduct of the White Ribbon Movement."

It added that a "comprehensive security framework has been activated to preserve public order" and safeguard every participant.

Organizers of the White Ribbon Movement March had projected 10,000 protesters to join the mass action. — VDV, GMA News