Groups in Panay protest corruption in big projects

By Juliane Judilla

Progressive groups led by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN)-Panay staged simultaneous protests across Panay Island on Thursday, Sept. 18, denouncing corruption in major infrastructure projects.

In Iloilo City, multi-sectoral groups held a protest beneath the controversial Aganan Flyover in Ungka, Pavia, Iloilo, citing the structure as a prime example of corruption involving about PHP 1.012 billion in public funds allegedly wasted.

Traditional jeepney drivers from the No to PUV Phaseout Coalition (NTPPC)-Panay also joined the demonstrations by staging “Untat Byahe Kontra Korapsyon,” offering free rides to protesters from Jaro Plaza to the Aganan Flyover.

The groups said that beyond flood control projects, two major infrastructure initiatives in Iloilo province — the Ungka and Aganan Flyovers — stand as glaring symbols of corruption.

Elmer Forro of BAYAN-Panay urged the public to demand accountability from corrupt officials.

“The Aganan Flyover shows just how severe corruption is in our country,” Forro said.

“That’s why we must unite in our call and bring our demands to the streets,” he added.

The Jalaur River for the People Movement (JRPM) also pointed out that the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project (JRMP), the province’s largest flood mitigation infrastructure, has suffered massive budget overruns but remains unfinished.

The group said the project has caused serious consequences, including the displacement of indigenous peoples from ancestral lands and the potential for increased flooding in downstream communities.

In Kalibo, Aklan, local groups staged a picket protest in front of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Aklan Engineering District Office.

The protesters stressed that ordinary citizens continue to endure economic hardship, inadequate social services and low wages while corruption persists in government.

The protest actions form part of a broader series of demonstrations leading up to Sept. 21, which marks the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law and the National Day of Action Against Corruption.