Thousands of Filipino citizens took to the streets in simultaneous protests across Metro Manila and Cebu City on November 30, 2025, voicing strong opposition against government corruption and marking the 162nd anniversary of Bonifacio Day.
Major Demonstrations in Key Locations
Various groups assembled along Colon Street in Cebu City while in Metro Manila, protesters converged at multiple locations on Sunday. The main demonstration, dubbed the "Trillion Peso March," was spearheaded by Akbayan Party-list Representatives Chel Diokno and Perci Cendaña, who led participants from the Edsa Shrine to the Edsa People Power Monument in Quezon City.
The protest movement gained significant support from church groups and labor organizations. Among the prominent figures joining the demonstration were Senator Kiko Pangilinan, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, former Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, and former senator Franklin Drilon.
Demands for Accountability and Fund Return
Representative Diokno emphasized that beyond seeking accountability, corrupt government officials must return the money they had stolen from the people. The protests specifically targeted allegations of corruption related to anomalous flood control projects that have drawn public outrage.
At Luneta Park in Manila, various progressive groups led by Bayan conducted their own protest action against corruption. The event faced initial disruption when police blocked protesters from entering Rizal Park due to permit issues, though Bayan clarified they had coordinated with Manila local government and the MMDA.
Police Response and Security Measures
The Philippine National Police reported approximately 5,000 protesters at the People Power Monument and 3,000 at Luneta Park by 11:00 AM. In a massive security operation, more than 17,000 police officers were deployed throughout Metro Manila to ensure the safety of participants and maintain peace and order during the activities.
PNP acting chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that enhanced security plans were implemented for these mass demonstrations to prevent incidents similar to the September 21 riot where a group of rioters suddenly appeared and attacked police at Ayala Bridge and Mendiola in Manila, attempting to breach Malacañang.
Despite the initial tension at Rizal Park, the Manila Police District eventually allowed the groups to proceed with their program, though Bayan characterized the early obstruction as an attempt to sabotage the protest and suppress demands for accountability from President Marcos Jr. regarding large-scale corruption in the government.
