‘Trillion Peso March’ can proceed sans rally permits

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The planned mass demonstration against alleged corruption in government flood control projects, scheduled for September 21, can proceed even without the required permits.

The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) announced Wednesday that it will no longer enforce the “no permit, no rally” policy on the “Trillion Peso March” following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s statement that he would not stop Filipinos from joining the protest.

Marcos on Monday encouraged the public to express outrage against those allegedly involved in the misuse of public funds through anomalous flood control projects.

He also reaffirmed his respect for peaceful mass protests, emphasizing his support for the public’s right to voice frustration over corruption.

“Since there is a declaration from the president, the existing ordinances or issuances at the city level could not supersede the proclamation of the president, so we have to follow,” ICPO Director PCol. Kim Legada said during a press conference Wednesday.

He added that even before the president’s statement, the ICPO had already approved a rally permit for the progressive group Bayan Panay.

To ensure peace and security during the mobilization, Legada said security personnel will be deployed to monitor strategic locations.

“Our goal is, based on the current situation, we will act according to what is needed since we have reserve forces,” he said.

The ICPO chief also reminded demonstrators to exercise their right to protest with responsibility.

“I would like to appeal to the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully. You are free to air your frustrations and your call through a peaceful protest,” he said.

The Kahublagan Kontra Korapsyon, a broad coalition of civic, political, and religious groups, is leading the protest mobilization in Iloilo.

The main march will begin at 3:00 p.m. from Jaro Cathedral and proceed to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, followed by an anti-corruption concert featuring local artists.

The action coincides with the anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law in 1972.

A temporary road closure will be implemented on portions of General Luna Street and Bonifacio Drive from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on September 21.

CITY LEADERS BACK PROTESTS

Top officials of the Iloilo City government are standing with the public in expressing outrage and demanding accountability over alleged widespread corruption, particularly in state-funded flood control projects.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu said she “fully supports” the nationwide “Trillion Peso March,” which is being organized by more than 200 sectoral groups, church organizations, student bodies, labor unions, and political coalitions.

“This is not just about one city, one issue, or one administration — it is about demanding good governance, transparency, and accountability from those who manage our people’s money,” she said in a statement on Wednesday.

She cited allegedly defective national projects, including unfinished multi-purpose buildings, unusable school facilities, and billions of pesos spent on flood control works that have failed to address flooding.

“The outrage of the people is valid. Their frustration is real. And their demand for accountability is urgent. That is why I stand with those who will raise their voices on September 21,” she emphasized.

“It is time we say, enough is enough. Transparency is not optional. Accountability is not negotiable. Our people deserve better,” she added.

At least five city councilors have also confirmed their participation in the protest: Sedfrey Cabaluna, Nene Dela Llana, Rex Marcus Sarabia, Miguel Treñas, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Jelma Crystel Implica.

Sarabia said their participation should not be seen as a partisan move, noting they had already requested the Department of the Interior and Local Government for a legal opinion on whether local officials may lawfully join the event.

“As public officials, we will not be making statements against the government […] We will just be walking the sidewalks and exercising our rights,” he said.

Transport cooperatives and several associations of barangay captains in Iloilo City have also expressed their support for the protest action.