Thousands joined anti-corruption protests across the Philippines on November 30, 2025, marking the second wave of demonstrations against anomalies in flood control projects. Key events included the Trillion Peso March at the People Power Monument in Quezon City and the Baha sa Luneta 2.0 at Rizal Park in Manila. Religious leaders and activists called for transparency and accountability amid heavy police presence.
On November 30, 2025, coinciding with the 162nd birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio, various anti-corruption protests unfolded across the Philippines, focusing on the flood control controversy described as the country's worst corruption scandal in years. Protesters demanded a transparent investigation into anomalies involving Department of Public Works and Highways officials, contractors, and lawmakers.
The Trillion Peso March began early, with participants gathering at 6 a.m. near the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City. Civil society and religious groups marched to the People Power Monument under the heat. A Mass was concelebrated by outgoing Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines President Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Cubao Bishop Elias Ayuban, and Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara. In his homily, Ayuban urged Filipinos to reject complacency, stating, “Do not let corruption become ordinary, do not let lies sound like the truth.” He added, “The act of stealing is not merely a mistake... It is the killing of the hope of every Filipino.” The crowd chanted “Ibalik na 'yan!” (Return that!) in response to calls for returning stolen funds. Ayuban noted support from 86 dioceses, saying, “The people, the nation, are now fighting alongside the church.” Cardinal David, on his last day as CBCP head after rescheduling a trip from Malaysia, rejected calls for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte's resignations, explaining protesters chose Quezon City as the nation was not ready for such demands.
Meanwhile, the Baha sa Luneta 2.0 rally faced hurdles at Rizal Park in Manila. Organizers from Bagong Alyansang Makabayan and Kilusang Bayan Kontra Kurakot assembled at 7 a.m. but police barred stage setup, citing a “no permit, no rally” policy despite claims of coordination with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Manila local government. Manila Mayor Isko Moreno noted the need for National Parks Development Committee approval. Protesters negotiated and eventually occupied Roxas Boulevard, with the program proceeding. Makabayan bloc activists marched along Roxas Boulevard, and some groups called for a transition council. In Mendiola, about 12,000 police limited access to 300 meters from the Peace Arch, allowing the rally until 1 p.m. after negotiations over a permit copy.
Nationwide, similar protests occurred, including in Baguio where Fr. Genesis Langbao expressed solidarity, calling the misuse of funds “terrible.” Organizer Kiko Dee urged Marcos to recuse from investigations due to mentions in former congressman Zaldy Co's testimony. The National Capital Region Police Office deployed 17,105 officers to prevent repeats of September 21 violence, which saw riots, 216 arrests, and two fatalities. Firearm permits were suspended, and authorities emphasized orderly conduct.
