MANILA (UPDATED) — The call against corruption continued Sunday at the People Power Monument as thousands marched to express their disgust over what they call widespread and systemic corruption in government.
People from all walks of life and from different areas, some even from provinces, joined the unified call for accountability.
As early as 6 a.m., a group of senior citizens who travelled all the way from Cavite were already in the vicinity.
They said it is important for all generations to get involved. Their group was present during the 1986 People Power Revolution and their presence today is their way of passing the torch to the next generation who will benefit from the calls of good governance.
People from as far as Pampanga and Marawi City also joined in expressing their anger over what’s happening.
Political personalities like Senator Kiko Pangilinan, Akbayan representative Chel Diokno, social media personalities, actor Elijah Canlas are also at the PPM.
Catriona Gray and the band Ben&Ben are expected to make an appearance and performance later in the day.
The groups, coming from various areas in Metro Manila, gathered in the People Power Monument for the second Trillion Peso March — a follow-up to the large-scale anti-corruption protest held last September 21.
Authorities estimate that 120,000 individuals would attend the protest.
PROGRESS IN PROBE NOT ENOUGH
Kiko Aquino Dee, one of the organizers of the Trillion Peso March said that while they did see some progress since the September 21 rally, this is not enough.
"Ang panawagan ng taumbayan ay ikulong ang lahat ng kurakot. In terms of the cases filed, we look forward to the final December 15 deadline na binigay ng Ombudsman. Then we’ll decide if there’s substantial progress made with these cases filed, we’ll give credit where credit is due," he said.
What has happened since the September 21 People Power Monument and Luneta rallies?
He also called on the government to show that it is really serious in making those responsible truly accountable saying that the case against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez is a good litmus test in this call against corruption.
As for their call for President Marcos, Aquino saID they want to see him recluse himself from investigation because his name has been mentioned.
He said while resigned congressman Zaldy Co's allegations seem questionable, his statements must still be considered especially these were very serious allegations.
Earlier Sunday, a mass was officiated by Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David.