Award-winning singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid has confirmed he will join the mass protest scheduled this Sunday, September 21, at the EDSA People Power Monument, to demand accountability from officials and contractors implicated in the massive corruption scandal surrounding anomalous flood-control projects.
Speaking to reporters, Alcasid explained that his decision to take part was fueled not only by anger but also by a deep sense of responsibility. “People are fed up. The public is no longer blind to the deception of those in power. We need to send a clear message: accountability is non-negotiable,” he said.
The veteran performer recounted a recent moment on It’s Showtime, when Vice Ganda interviewed an elderly ice cream vendor. The man, in his seventies, made just ₱500 a day, with only about ₱200 left after expenses. Yet he still saved enough to buy his grandchild a cone of ice cream. “That touched me,” Alcasid said. “Here is a man who works with dignity, who fights fair every single day. And yet, while he lives honestly, those who are supposed to protect him are the very ones robbing him of a future. What kind of tomorrow awaits his grandchild?”
For Alcasid, this symbolizes the betrayal of ordinary Filipinos by corrupt officials. “Like everyone else, we must demand justice. Nothing is final yet, but every day the news exposes more layers of wrongdoing. We cannot remain silent,” he added.
Now 58, the singer said this rally goes beyond partisan politics. “When I go to EDSA on Sunday, I’ll probably be with my sister. This isn’t about being pink or yellow—it’s about all of us. Corruption doesn’t have a political color. This is our fight as one people.”
He admitted feeling both frustrated and enraged over the revelations, but stressed that emotions must be transformed into collective action. “It’s heartbreaking and infuriating. But anger alone won’t solve this. Unity will. I expect thousands to come out, and I encourage everyone else: make the effort. Park farther away if you must, walk, bring an umbrella, wear a mask. Be present. Listen. Join us. Because voices that unite can no longer be ignored.”