KARAPATAN

On September 4, 2025, a series of widespread demonstrations began in the Philippines, with the largest initial protests occurring on September 21 at Rizal Park and Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila, and at the People Power Monument, Camp Aguinaldo Gate 4, and EDSA Shrine along EDSA in Quezon City, both within Metro Manila. They involve several anti-corruption protests stemming from the ongoing flood control projects controversy that largely involved the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the legislative branch of the Philippine government. According to reports, the demonstrations focus on allegations of massive irregularities in flood control programmes, with some ₱1.9 trillion (US$33 billion) spent over the past 15 years, more than half of which was allegedly lost to corruption. Several cities and municipalities across different provinces also held local demonstrations. The September 21 protest in Rizal Park ("Baha sa Luneta") was organised by various sectoral groups, including activists and students, while the simultaneous protest at the People Power Monument and EDSA Shrine is known as the "Trillion Peso March", organised mainly by church groups, civil society organisations, student organisations, labour unions, and political coalitions. Although protests were characterised as peaceful throughout the country, an isolated riot by masked demonstrators occurred along streets near Malacañang Palace in Manila, injuring several protestors, bystanders, and policemen, and resulting in two casualties: one from a stabbing attack, and another from a stray bullet. Protests have continued as of February 2026. The "Trillion Peso March Part 2" and a "Baha Sa Luneta 2" were held on November 30, 2025, while a third reiteration of the aforementioned protests was conducted on February 25, 2026, timed with the 40th anniversary of the People Power Revolution. Inter-religious leaders have also announced the formation of White Ribbon Movement (WRM) which will lead an anti-corruption rally on June 28, 2026 at the EDSA People Power Monument.