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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider EDSA protest group denies AFP claim of 'foreign-funded' rally

EDSA protest group denies AFP claim of 'foreign-funded' rally

Published Nov 21, 2025 12:25 pm  |  Updated Nov 21, 2025 01:24 pm

The United People’s Initiative (UPI) denied allegations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday, Nov. 21, that foreign funders backed its recent protest at the People Power Monument.

Crowds gather along EDSA Whiteplains near the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City during the United People’s Initiative Rally for Accountability, Justice, and Integrity on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. (Santi San Juan)
Crowds gather along EDSA Whiteplains near the EDSA People Power Monument in Quezon City during the United People’s Initiative Rally for Accountability, Justice, and Integrity on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. (Santi San Juan)

The AFP had earlier said the mass action,  which was attended largely by military retirees, may have received support from foreign sources. 

Acting AFP spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad on Tuesday, Nov.18, described an “unusual support system” observed during the rally.

“We are checking all possible leads, especially when it comes to funding, if these were done by domestic or maybe even — for all we know — foreign groups,” Trinidad said in a press briefing. 

UPI rejected the claim, saying there was a “persistent attempt to demonize” the group following its peaceful mass action at the People Power Monument earlier this week.

“There was no foreign funding,” UPI said. 

“All expenses came from local supporters, volunteers, and ordinary Filipinos who believe in accountability, justice, and genuine reform. Most contributions were in-kind, not cash,” it added.

The group said that it never solicited money and only accepted voluntary in-kind support. 

It challenged the AFP to publicly release evidence supporting its claim.

“If the AFP claims otherwise, then it must present evidence,” UPI said. 

“And if there truly was some external funding we are unaware of, we demand to see proof, because we refuse to let our movement be used by anyone,” it added.

UPI said that disinformation will not deter its advocacy. 

“We stand for truth, transparency, and the people’s right to be heard. No amount of disinformation will silence the call for justice,” it said.

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