Protesters gather in Malate, Manila, calling for an end to corruption
Published Oct 12, 2025 11:28 pm
Various activist groups gathered at Plaza Rajah Sulayman in Malate, Manila, on Sunday, Oct. 12, for a large protest rally marked by music, speeches, and strong political demands, including the resignation of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.
The event, organized by the United People’s Initiative, combined a concert with protest action, drawing participants calling for accountability in government and an end to what they describe as worsening corruption under the Marcos administration.
Chants of “Resign BBM!” and “End Corruption Now!” echoed through the historic plaza, with demonstrators waving placards and banners as passing motorists were encouraged to honk in solidarity.
Organizers said the rally is part of a broader series of actions that will continue in the coming days.
Among the key demands voiced were increased government transparency, better living conditions, and a full audit of public spending.
Authorities said the tensions briefly escalated when a motorcycle rider carrying a “One Piece” flag, the same symbol that became controversial during the September 21 rally in Mendiola, passed by the area.
Some protesters, recalling past disruptions, confronted the rider, suspecting him of being a provocateur.
Rally marshals quickly intervened and escorted the rider away to prevent further escalation.
No injuries were reported, and organizers emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful and orderly conduct throughout the demonstration.
Later in the evening, the protesters were scheduled to march to Dasmariñas Village in Makati City, near the residence of President Marcos.
Organizers said this was meant to bring their message directly to the nation’s top leader.
MPD estimated that around 100 people were present in the area during the protest.
Despite the heated calls for resignation, police said the protest remained largely peaceful.
Meanwhile, at Sta. Cruz Parish, PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. was seen in quiet prayer during the enthronement and Novena Mass of the Canonically Crowned Image of Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Manila. The mass was led by Cardinal Jose Advincula.
According to the PNP, his attendance also affirmed the organization’s support for faith-based programs that nurture values and build unity between the police and the people they serve.
Civic leader Dr. Jose Antonio Goitia Chairman Emeritus of the Alyansa ng Bantay sa Kapayapaan at Demokrasya (ABKD), People’s Alliance for Democracy and Reforms (PADER), Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI), and Filipinos Do Not Yield (FDNY) Movement, noted the gesture as a quiet example of principled leadership grounded in humility.