01/10/2025
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In Naga, Thousands to join ‘Trillion Peso March sa Kabikolan’ to protest government corruption
An estimated 10,000 individuals, including students, clergy, educators, public and private sector employees, and business leaders, are expected to participate today October 1, 2025 in the “Trillion Peso March sa Kabikolan”, a region-wide church-led protest against large-scale government corruption.
The protest, which also serves as a prayer rally, aims to draw national attention to the alleged misuse of billions of pesos in public funds, particularly involving flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Lawmakers, private contractors, and DPWH officials are believed to be involved in what organizers call a “grave betrayal of public trust.”
The march in Naga City is part of a simultaneous mobilization across other cities in the Bicol Region. In Naga, the protest will culminate at the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica and National Shrine, following a route that begins at the Ateneo de Naga University campus and passes through key city landmarks including the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza Quince Martires, Camarines Sur National High School, and the campuses of BISCAST and Naga College Foundation, before proceeding along Magsaysay Avenue.
Participating schools have emphasized that student involvement is voluntary. Organizers advised students to inform their instructors and respective college deans if they choose to take part. Institutions involved include Ateneo de Naga University, Naga College Foundation, and the Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST).
Rev. Fr. Marc Real, one of the lead organizers, confirmed that parishioners from nearby towns are also expected to join. He noted that this protest is only the beginning of a series of church-led activities to denounce corruption, supported by the Archdiocese of Caceres.
“No one is being forced to join. We are simply encouraging people to follow their conscience. This is a call for moral awakening,” Fr. Real said.
The protest is reminiscent of past nationwide anti-corruption movements, but organizers stress that the Trillion Peso March sa Kabikolan is a peaceful, prayerful expression of outrage and hope for systemic change. | via Jason Neola
