Trillion Peso March Evolves into Nationwide Movement; Second Rally Set for November 30
The Trillion Peso March, first held on September 21, 2025, has rapidly transformed from a one-day anti-corruption protest into a nationwide civic movement pushing for accountability and reforms in public infrastructure spending. Organizers have confirmed that a second major demonstration will take place on November 30, 2025, coinciding with Bonifacio Day.
From One Protest to a National Movement
The inaugural march on September 21—timed with the anniversary of the declaration of martial law—drew tens of thousands of participants across the country. Protesters, many dressed in white, represented a broad coalition of church groups, students, labor unions, professional associations, and civil society organizations.
While widely perceived as a protest against corruption, organizers stressed that the gathering was not aimed at ousting any official. Instead, it focused on alleged large-scale anomalies in flood-control and infrastructure projects, which critics claim may have resulted in massive losses to public funds.
Following the turnout and public resonance of the event, organizers formalized the initiative as the Trillion Peso March Movement, announcing a sustained campaign. Since early October, the movement has staged weekly actions such as candlelight vigils, masses, community forums, and “White Ribbon Fridays”, all meant to maintain public pressure for government transparency.
November 30: A Larger and More Coordinated Mobilization
The movement’s leaders have announced a second mass protest set for November 30, 2025. They describe the upcoming rally as “bigger, wider, and more determined” than the September event, with participation expected from regional sectors nationwide.
The November 30 action will continue to call for:
- Full, transparent investigations into alleged anomalies in public works projects
- Recovery of misused or stolen funds
- Reforms and safeguards to prevent future misuse of infrastructure budgets
Organizers reiterate that the movement seeks accountability, not forced resignations, emphasizing institutional reform rather than political destabilization.
A Growing Public Sentiment
The Trillion Peso March Movement has become one of the most significant civic mobilizations in recent years. Its growth reflects sustained public concern over corruption, governance, and the use of taxpayer funds. As November 30 approaches, both organizers and authorities are preparing for what may become one of the most consequential demonstrations of 2025.
Role of the Catholic Church in the Movement
Ahead of the first march on September 21, 2025, the CBCP issued a pastoral call urging all Filipino faithful — parishes, basic ecclesial communities, religious congregations, lay groups, Catholic schools, and even non-Catholics — to join the demonstration against corruption.
In the CBCP’s own words, the March was described not as a political spectacle but as “a moment of prayer, solidarity and action” to demand accountability and transparency in government contracts and public works.
The Catholic-lay umbrella group Sangguniang Laiko ng Pilipinas (LAIKO) — organized under the CBCP — formally called on Catholics and the public to participate in the second “Trillion Peso March” on November 30, 2025. In their statement, they described the protest as a peaceful, moral demand for justice, accountability, and protection of the common good.
The CBCP’s humanitarian and development arm, Caritas Philippines, likewise endorsed the upcoming protest: its president urged faithful citizens to come out and “denounce corruption,” making clear the Church’s backing of the movement.
In public statements, church leaders clarified that their support is for accountability and good governance — not a call for resignation of the administration or a political takeover. Their emphasis is on systemic reform: “to jail, expose, and recover funds stolen through corruption,” rather than destabilizing government leadership.
Using moral and spiritual framing, Church leaders described participation in the march as a “stand for truth, integrity, good governance” — positioning the fight against corruption as a moral imperative, not a partisan issue.
Implications: Why the Catholic Church’s Involvement Matters
The endorsement and mobilization from Church hierarchy provide the movement with moral and institutional legitimacy — broadening its appeal beyond secular civil society and giving it a faith-based foundation.
By calling on laypeople, parishes, schools, and Catholic organizations nationwide, the Church helps facilitate wide grassroots participation, including those who might not otherwise engage in protest politics.
The Church’s stance of accountability without partisan agenda helps frame the march as a non-partisan civic and moral action — emphasizing governance reform rather than political overthrow. The Church’s involvement signals that corruption and misuse of public funds are being treated not only as political or economic issues — but also as moral crises that affect dignity, justice, and social trust.
*****
In the local scene, the Diocese of Libmanan has confirmed its participation in the Second Trillion Peso March: Aldaw nin Pamibi asin Protesta, scheduled to take place at the Peñafrancia Basilica in Naga City. Delegates will convene at designated assembly points, namely Ateneo de Naga University, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Quince Martires Plaza, the Immaculate Conception Parish Church, and the Liboton–Peñafrancia Crossing. From these locations, participants will proceed in procession toward the Basilica, where the prayer rally and formal program will be conducted.
On November 30, 2025, the official statement of the Diocese of Libmanan will be read at all Masses in every parish church within the diocesan jurisdiction. The Catholic faithful are likewise enjoined to display white ribbons in their homes and parish communities as a visible sign of solidarity. The statement reads as follows:
For its official slogan, the Diocese of Libmanan has chosen a concise and memorable phrase, intended to witness to its steadfast commitment against corruption and to call upon public authorities to uphold justice, integrity, and transparency.
