Progressive groups hold 'peaceful' rally in Mendiola during SONA 2025
Progressive groups held a peaceful protest in Mendiola, Manila, aiming to raise awareness about the challenges faced by many Filipinos under President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr.'s administration.
On the day of the president's State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, around 200 rallyists led by the Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya (KILUSAN) marched toward Mendiola while chanting calls for jobs, justice, and government accountability.
According to the Manila Police District (MPD), the demonstration remained peaceful and organized.
It has deployed around 1,000 officers to maintain security and facilitate movement throughout the day.
It has deployed around 1,000 officers to maintain security and facilitate movement throughout the day.
Traffic was reportedly heavy along roads leading to Mendiola, worsened by a brief rain early in the day.
Members of KILUSAN highlighted the growing challenges faced by many Filipinos today, pointing to the rising cost of basic goods, persistent unemployment, and declining quality of essential public services.
They stressed that these difficulties have made life increasingly hard for ordinary citizens, who continue to struggle amid economic instability and limited support from the government.