Akbayan Party-list would rather gatekeep EDSA from being used as a venue for the display of support for what it described as the likes of Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

In a statement Wednesday, July 1, Akbayan reminded Filipinos of EDSA's sacred place in Philippine history, even as members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) continued their rally their for a second day.

Marcoleta, who is expected to be charged with plunder sooner than later, is identified with the influential Christian denomination.

But Akbayan said the EDSA demonstration won't save the embattled senator.

"Akbayan Party strongly opposes the use of EDSA for a gathering in support of Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who is expected to face charges of plunder," the party-list said.

The group is being represented in the current 20th Congress by Reps. Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, and Dadah Kiram Ismula.

"While we uphold the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, these are diminished and betrayed when they are invoked not to speak truth to power, but to protect the corrupt and powerful," they said.

"EDSA is sacred ground in our nation's history. It symbolizes the Filipino people's struggle for truth, justice, and accountability. It is not a sanctuary for plunder and impunity," added the minority bloc solons.

"Equally deplorable, but not surprising, is the open support this gathering has received from twice-impeached Vice President Sara Duterte and ousted Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano," Akbayan said.

"Sara has every reason to support any effort that could undermine her impeachment trial. Cayetano, meanwhile, has once again demonstrated his remarkable talent for inserting himself into every political spectacle in search of relevance," the party-list said, pulling no punches.

Akbayan called on the Filipino people to reject "the false narrative being peddled by Marcoleta's camp and to defend the true spirit of EDSA".

It also challenged the Marcos administration to stand firm in pursuing charges against Marcoleta and to swiftly file cases, arrest, and send to jail all those involved in the flood control corruption scandal, regardless of whether they belong to the camps of the Dutertes or the Marcoses.

"This is already long overdue. Justice delayed only deepens public distrust and division," Akbayan said.

As a parting shot to Marcoleta, Akbayan said: "You may bring your supporters to EDSA, but you cannot claim its legacy. EDSA is defined not by geography but by principle."

"It belongs to those who fought tyranny, corruption, and impunity, not to those seeking refuge from accountability. You may temporarily occupy EDSA, but you will never inherit its meaning or use it to escape justice," it further said.