Protesters Flood Luneta in Anti-Corruption Rally

Crowds streamed into Luneta Park in Manila on Sunday morning to join the “Bahain ang Luneta” protest, which called out alleged corruption in flood control and other infrastructure projects.

Director Joel Lamangan, who directed the program, announced that the morning rally would feature a lineup of “interesting speakers and performers” on a two-stage setup.

Organizers confirmed that the program included musicians, drag queens, the Philippine Educational Theater Association, the Concerned Artists of the Philippines, and several other groups.

Lamangan explained that the program aimed to “shake” government officials and contractors allegedly linked to substandard or non-existent flood control projects and to remind them of their wrongdoing.

He stressed that protests served as a warning to those who steal public funds. “We want to make these people realize that citizens remain vigilant and angry at their corruption,” he said, noting that he has long joined movements against government abuse.

Lamangan also expressed his frustration as a taxpayer. “I keep paying my taxes, only to find out that they steal them again and again,” he said.

Investigations by the executive branch and both chambers of Congress revealed evidence of widespread corruption in infrastructure projects.

The controversy sparked public outrage, triggered leadership changes in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, and fueled protests across the country.

Organizers scheduled the Luneta rally as one of several major protests on Sunday, which also coincided with the anniversary of the signing of Martial Law by the late Ferdinand Marcos, father of the current president.

Lamangan directed his final remarks at those accused of corruption. “Wake up, the people are speaking,” he declared, as the crowd cheered in agreement.