With a passion that outmatched the scorching heat of the afternoon sun, youths from all over the city joined hands in the “Iliganon Youth Rage Against Corruption” movement by the Kabataan Party List of Iligan City on Sunday, November 30 at the Iligan Post Office.
Through the voices of the people, emotions echoed through the streets of Iligan City as they marched to call for action against the country’s growing corruption.
Tension rose as some members of the crowd invoked the names of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., breaking into the chant, “Marcos, Duterte, walang pinag-iba! Parehong tuta, diktador, pasista!”
Participating youth groups advocated that unless public figures are called out, they will never be held accountable and no one will be put behind bars.
As part of the march, leaders of activist groups were allowed to speak, but their messages were quickly curtailed by time limits, forcing those who wished to speak longer to cut their remarks short.
Not everyone was thrilled by the mention of certain politicians in the protest. “Si Marcos ra ikulong! Si Duterte ayaw na apil apila!” one protester even exclaimed.
Participants of the march who were deemed to not follow the organizers’ protocols and guidelines by name-dropping certain figures were called out by marshals.
“Nganong naa may protocol ang protesta? Mura gihapon tag gikulong ana!” another protester retorted, expressing frustration at the restrictions stated.
Tensions rose further when some participants were told to remove their masks to “show their bravery.” Undeterred, the demonstrators held their ground and continued chanting.
The tense situation was eventually remedied after the marshals apologized, along with those involved.
With placards raised high, the protesters concluded the gathering, reaffirming their message: Bonifacio’s legacy must be upheld not only through commemoration but through persistent efforts to hold corrupt leaders and individuals accountable.
Report by Samuel Adrian Guerra and Jazel Ann Maghilum
Proofread by Eula Grace Logarta and Andrea Ross Sedero
Photos by Samuel Adrian Guerra and Aiyeesha Abah
Photo Edit by Samuel Adrian Guerra
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