Several youth and civic groups are set to lead a major anti-corruption rally at Luneta Park in Manila on September 21.
The protest, organized by the Taumbayan Ayaw sa Magnanakaw at Abusado Network Alliance, Panatang Luntian Coalition, and various student councils, seeks to hold public officials and contractors accountable for alleged corruption and nepotism linked to flood control projects.
UP Student Regent Dexter Clemente said the rally aims to send a clear message against those “stealing from the nation’s coffers.” He added that young people from leading universities are uniting to demand justice and transparency in government projects.
De La Salle University professor David Michael San Juan, representing the advocacy group “TAMA NA,” emphasized that the demonstration is open to all who wish to stand against corruption. He also clarified that anomalies in flood project contracts have occurred under both the Duterte and Marcos administrations, underscoring the need for continuous vigilance regardless of political leadership.
Church leaders, veteran activists from past anti-dictatorship campaigns, and long-time anti-corruption advocates have also expressed support for the upcoming rally. Organizers said they expect thousands of students, civic leaders, and concerned citizens to join.
The rally will coincide with the anniversary of the declaration of martial law, a date long associated with political protests in the Philippines. Organizers said the timing is intentional, meant to connect past struggles for accountability with present demands for clean governance.
The Luneta demonstration is expected to highlight growing frustration among the youth and civil society over corruption scandals that continue to plague the country’s infrastructure projects.
