Anti-Corruption Protests Set for October 31 to November 30
MANILA, Philippines – Several anti-corruption demonstrations are being planned in the coming weeks leading up to a major event on November 30, which coincides with Bonifacio Day. The Kilusang Bayan Kontra Kurakot (KBKK) revealed this during a press briefing on Wednesday, highlighting the growing public concern over alleged misuse of public funds.
Various groups from different sectors have joined the movement. These include youth organizations, religious institutions, labor unions, healthcare professionals, senior citizens, artists, and environmental advocates. Each group has its own way of expressing opposition to corruption.
Here is a list of the upcoming anti-corruption protests:
October 31
“Ghostbuster Protest” at Mendiola Bridge
The KBKK will hold a Halloween-themed protest on the eve of All Saints’ Day. This unique approach aims to draw attention to the issue of corruption in a creative and memorable way.
November 7
Lakbayan ng Mamamayan, march to Liwasang Bonifacio at 1 p.m.
Bishop Kiko Herrera from the United People Against Corruption will lead a march to Liwasang Bonifacio. The event is not only a protest against corruption but also a commemoration of the 12th anniversary of Super Typhoon Yolanda.
November 8
Yolanda Anniversary Mass Action
Environmentalists will use this opportunity to denounce corruption related to flood-control projects while remembering the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Yolanda. Niña Fegi, coordinator of Panatang Luntian, emphasized the importance of this message.
November 9
Anti-corruption protest in Valenzuela
November 14
Anti-corruption march to Liceo de San Pablo
November 17
International Students’ Day Protest
Joaquin Buenaflor, chairperson of the University of the Philippines Student Council, mentioned that state universities and other tertiary institutions will hold protests on their campuses. Tiffany Brilllante, chairperson of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Student Council, added that there may be a convergence of these protests.
November 21
Health Workers Day of Action
Dr. Delen de la Paz from the Health Alliance for Democracy encouraged healthcare workers to participate in silent protests at their workplaces. This idea was inspired by the mall walk organized by senior citizens wearing shirts with their calls against corruption.
November 22
Bike for the Environment for Environmental Awareness Month
November 30
Anti-corruption rally in Calamba, Laguna
Bonifacio Day, National Day of Protest
KBKK will organize a mass action in Manila to commemorate Bonifacio Day. The group expects more than 100,000 attendees, surpassing the turnout of the September 21 Baha sa Luneta rally.
One Faith. One Nation. One Voice. is also planning banner drops across churches and parishes nationwide in November, according to Rev. Irma Balaba.
Professor Danilo Arao of the UP College of Media and Communication anticipates protests on November 3 and November 23. November 3 marks the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, while November 23 is the anniversary of the Ampatuan Massacre, where 58 individuals, including 32 journalists, were killed.
Bunyog Pagkakaisa is also preparing a mobilization at the Senate before November 30.
These protests are fueled by ongoing investigations into anomalies in flood-control projects, where government officials, including senators and congressmen, have been implicated for allegedly receiving kickbacks from these projects.
