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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Palace on Sept. 21 protests: Marcos respects freedom of expression

Palace on Sept. 21 protests: Marcos respects freedom of expression

Published Sep 14, 2025 07:30 am
Progressive groups stage a protest march from EDSA Shrine to the EDSA People Power Monument on Sept. 13, 2025, calling for accountability over corruption in flood control projects. (John Louie Abrina)
Progressive groups stage a protest march from EDSA Shrine to the EDSA People Power Monument on Sept. 13, 2025, calling for accountability over corruption in flood control projects. (John Louie Abrina)
Malacañang said President Marcos recognizes the public’s right to express dissent as protests against corruption in government are set to take place on Sept. 21, the anniversary of the declaration of martial law.
In a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President considers the demonstrations a valid expression of sentiment, especially amid public concern over corruption and governance.
“The President will always respect this freedom of expression,” she said on Saturday, Sept. 13.
“So, kung anuman po ang nararamdaman na sentimyento ng ating mga kababayan sa ngayon, iyan po ay ginagalang ng Pangulo (Whatever sentiments our countrymen feel right now, the President respects that),” she added.
The Palace official, however, hoped protests remain free from groups that may exploit them for destabilization.
“Ang dasal lamang po natin, ito kanilang pagsisintemyento ay huwag sanang sakyan ng ibang mga tao na hindi maganda ang naisin para sa gobyerno kung hindi mag-destabilize (Our only prayer is that these sentiments are not ridden on by others whose intent is not good for the government but only to destabilize),” she said.
The Palace official added that Marcos supports citizens who raise their grievances in good faith, particularly in the fight against corruption.
“So, iyan po ay sinusuportahan naman din po ng Pangulo ang mga hinaing ng ating taumbayan dahil ito naman po ay laban sa kurapsyon (The President supports the grievances of our people because this is, after all, against corruption),” Castro said.
The Palace’s remarks came days after Marcos issued Executive Order No. 94, creating the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to probe irregularities in flood control and public works projects.
September 21 marks the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of martial law by the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., often commemorated by protests and rallies nationwide.
This year’s demonstrations are expected to draw larger crowds following renewed calls for accountability in government spending and corruption investigations.

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President Marcos Bongbong Marcos Claire Castro protests
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