Malacañang on Saturday reiterated President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s respect for the people’s right to protest amid mounting outrage over alleged corruption in flood control projects, but cautioned Filipinos to guard against groups or individuals who may exploit the demonstrations for their own gain.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President shares the public’s anger over reports of “ghost” or substandard flood control works, stressing that Marcos himself has ordered sweeping investigations into the anomalies.
“The President hears and feels the people’s dismay, and he feels the same way,” Castro said. “That is why he directed the creation of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to pursue accountability.”
Warning against hidden agendas
While assuring that the administration welcomes legitimate public expression, the Palace warned that opportunistic actors could attempt to hijack the rallies.
“Be vigilant because some may try to use the protests’ legitimate cause to discredit government and serve personal interests,” Castro said.
Political analyst Ronald Llamas echoed the caution, warning that “bad elements” could derail the broader anti-corruption message if the public is not discerning.
A day of nationwide demonstrations
Multiple protest actions are expected across the country on September 21, coinciding with the anniversary of martial law under Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
• “Bahain ang Luneta” will open at Rizal Park in Manila at 9 a.m., organized by activist and multi-sectoral coalitions.
• The “Trillion Peso March” spearheaded by religious groups will unfold at the People Power Monument in Quezon City at 2 p.m.
• Groups allied with the Dutertes are also planning parallel activities in Manila’s Liwasang Bonifacio and at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
• In Davao City, Vice President Sara Duterte has announced a prayer rally where, symbolically, 100 cattle will be sacrificed.
Accountability measures launched
To address corruption allegations, Marcos created the ICI to review infrastructure programs and established the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” online portal, which has already received reports of fraudulent flood control projects.
However, critics—including Vice President Duterte—have called these measures too slow, arguing that the anomalies in the budget are already sufficient grounds to pursue legal cases.
The September 21 rallies highlight a tense convergence of historical memory, anti-corruption advocacy, and political fault lines. While the administration seeks to reassure the public of its commitment to accountability, the Palace’s repeated warnings suggest deep concern that the demonstrations may morph into something larger than a call for good governance.
