Anger Over Corruption Sparks Huge ‘Trillion Peso March’ in Philippines

EDSA lit up on Sunday as tens of thousands of Filipinos gathered at the People Power Monument for the “Trillion Peso March.” By 8 a.m., chants, placards, and honking horns filled White Plains and nearby streets as groups from all walks of life united under one cry: end corruption.

Who joined the rally

Youth groups, civil society orgs, church leaders, and ordinary citizens all showed up. Even actors and local bands joined the mix, making it part protest, part concert, part prayer rally. Some biked, others marched, and yes—even senior citizens braved the heat to wave signs.

What they’re demanding

Organizers say the “Trillion Peso March” highlights the trillions allegedly lost to shady infrastructure deals. While floods drown communities after just a light rain, politicians and contractors pocket funds through substandard or even ghost projects. The result: endless suffering for Filipinos who keep paying taxes that only the corrupt enjoy. Protesters are demanding quick, concrete action—independent probes, convictions within six months, and accountability for all, no exemptions.

Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno slammed “ghost projects” worth trillions, while other lawmakers warned the Marcos administration that public anger is boiling over. “Deliver on your promises or face the people’s rage,” one speaker said.

Beyond EDSA

It wasn’t just in Quezon City—Luneta also saw a massive turnout. Around 80,000 people joined the “Baha sa Luneta” (Flood in Luneta) protest before marching to Mendiola, demanding the same thing: stop corruption. Celebrities like Jodi Sta. Maria and Maris Racal also stood with the crowd.

One loud message

Despite political differences, the day turned into a rare show of unity. Students, celebrities, workers, and religious leaders all pushed the same message: enough with corruption, it’s time for accountability.

Marking 53 Years Since Martial Law

The protests coincided with the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law in the Philippines. Back then, the president was Ferdinand Marcos Sr.; today, his son Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is in power.

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here