In a powerful demonstration of collective resolve, members of the Akbayan Party-list, alongside the coalition Siklab (Simbahan at Komunidad Laban sa Katiwalian) and grieving families of victims from the 'War on Drugs', gathered at Scout Circle on Monday, February 23, 2026. This rally coincided with the International Criminal Court's confirmation of charges against former President Rodrigo Duterte, fueling a unified demand for his conviction as the alleged mastermind behind the killings.
Invoking the Spirit of People Power
As protesters marched and raised their voices, they drew a direct parallel to the historic People Power uprising that toppled the dictatorship of Marcos Sr. four decades ago. The message was clear: the same courage and determination that restored democracy must now be mobilized to confront the impunity of today. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of historical continuity, emphasizing that the fight for justice is an ongoing struggle against authoritarianism.
Rafaela David's Call for Justice
Akbayan Party president Rafaela David addressed the crowd, asserting that the power of the people, which once reclaimed democracy, is precisely what can secure justice for Filipinos now. "From Edsa to the ICC, the call is clear: an end to the culture of state-sponsored violence against the Filipino people," she declared. David reminded attendees that victory over the murderous Marcos regime was achieved in the past, and now, a similar effort must be made to hold Duterte accountable for his bloody war on the poor.
She emphasized that justice necessitates conviction, stating that Duterte must pay for his brutal crimes to break the cycle of violence. Only by standing up and demanding accountability from top leaders, she argued, can society begin to heal and prevent future abuses. David also stressed the importance of ensuring such atrocities never recur, vowing, "Hindi natin hahayaang maulit ang diktadura ni Marcos at tokhang ni Duterte." This commitment underscores a broader rejection of both past and present dictators to safeguard Filipinos from a future marred by human rights violations and plunder.
Perci Cendaña's Emphasis on Accountability
Akbayan Representative Perci Cendaña reinforced this message by highlighting a crucial lesson from the Edsa revolution: those who abuse power and oppress the people will ultimately face consequences. "Like the dictator overthrown by the people forty years ago, Duterte will learn that no amount of power and influence will be enough to escape accountability," Cendaña assured the gathering. He added that the stolen lives and injustices perpetrated under Duterte's rule demand appropriate retribution, with him and his conspirators facing the full weight of their crimes before the ICC.
What resonated deeply was Cendaña's pointed irony regarding the situation. He contrasted the fate of innocent victims, such as Kian delos Santos, who was executed without due process, with Duterte's opportunity to explain himself in court. "Si Kian nga na nagmakaawa dahil may test pa siya ay pinagsalang ng walang kalaban-laban, samantala si Digong pinayagan mag-absent sa hearing niya ng ICC," he noted. This stark comparison underscored the disparity in treatment, with Cendaña remarking that Duterte is fortunate to have a chance at a fair trial, unlike many Filipinos summarily sentenced to death.
A Strengthened Resolve for Justice
Standing amidst the crowd, hearing these impassioned speeches, the resolve of the protesters only intensified. They pledged to persist in their efforts until justice is finally served, viewing this rally as a pivotal step in a longer journey toward accountability. The event not only commemorated past struggles but also galvanized action for the present, with participants vowing to continue their advocacy through legal and public channels.
The rally at Scout Circle served as a poignant reminder of the enduring fight for human rights and democracy in the Philippines. By linking historical movements like People Power with contemporary demands for ICC justice, Akbayan and its allies are forging a path toward a future free from state-sponsored violence and impunity.
