‘Baha sa Luneta’ protest starts
LIVE UPDATES: Sept. 21 protests vs corruption
Thousands march in Manila for the “Baha sa Luneta” protest on Sept. 21, 2025, demanding an end to and accountability for persistent government corruption.
MANILA, Philippines — Thousands took to the streets in Manila on Sunday for the “Baha sa Luneta” protest, calling for an end to — and accountability for — persistent corruption in government.
Even before the protest’s main program, hundreds had already gathered at Luneta, waiting for the rally to begin.
By 9 a.m., the pedestrian crossing in front of the Rizal Monument was filled with thousands, including first-time rallyists and members of various sectoral and church groups.
According to Bayan President Renato Reyes, the Luneta protest program will feature performances, speeches, and cross-participation events.
READ: ‘Baha ng protesta’: What to expect from Sept. 21 Luneta rally
Thousands march in Manila for the “Baha sa Luneta” protest on Sept. 21, 2025, demanding an end to and accountability for persistent government corruption.
When asked about the meaning of the protest and the large turnout, Reyes said it proved that the Filipino people have had enough.
“This only means that our problems have become very serious — that the Filipino people are united, no matter what happens,” Reyes said in Filipino in a chance interview.
He also assured the public that the protest rally would not be the last time various groups unite for a common cause.
“Rest assured, this will not be the last time that these groups come together,” he said in Filipino.
Thousands march in Manila for the “Baha sa Luneta” protest on Sept. 21, 2025, demanding an end to and accountability for persistent government corruption.
Led by youth and activist groups, the protest has been endorsed by notable personalities including Kabataan Rep. Renee Co, San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, Sr. Mary John Mananzan, film director Joel Lamangan, former Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño, and Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay.
Thousands march in Manila for the “Baha sa Luneta” protest on Sept. 21, 2025, demanding an end to and accountability for persistent government corruption.
The Luneta protest primarily focuses on condemning anomalies in flood-control projects and demanding accountability from those involved.
It also calls for the accountability of corrupt politicians, the disclosure of statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth, and the signing of bank-secrecy waivers by all government officials./mcm
