Thousands Join ‘Trillion Peso March’ at EDSA Shrine Amid Corruption Protests

The “Trillion Peso March” at the EDSA People Power Monument on Sunday, September 21, 2025, became more than just a protest demanding accountability and action against corruption. It turned into a vivid display of the Filipino spirit of bayanihan.

Thousands of participants, including church groups, students, workers, and civic organizations, gathered peacefully despite the shifting weather. They came prepared not only for themselves but also for one another, sharing food, water, and medical supplies with strangers in the crowd.

Celebrities Join September 21 Anti-Corruption Rallies

Filipino celebrities joined thousands of demonstrators, as mass protests filled Luneta Park and the EDSA People Power Monument to denounce alleged corruption in government flood-control projects. Among those spotted were TV host and comedian Vice Ganda, Kapamilya stars Anne Curtis, Donny Pangilinan and many others.

Aside from the EDSA People Power Monument event, an earlier protest was staged, “Baha sa Luneta: Aksyon na Laban sa Korapsyon” at Rizal Park, Manila.

Despite the morning’s scorching heat and the afternoon’s heavy rain, tens of thousands trooped to Luneta, with protest leaders later marching to Mendiola to continue calls for accountability. Youth groups, church organizations, lawmakers, and civic groups were at the forefront of the demonstration, alongside celebrities including Jodi Sta. Maria, Maris Racal, and Angel Aquino.

According to Bayan, one of the event’s lead conveners, the crowd at Luneta had swelled to about 80,000 by 10 A.M. Many participants were first-time rallyists, reflecting a broadening base of public frustration over corruption.

More photos from the EDSA People Power Monument:

17 Arrested in Mendiola
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Sunday that 17 individuals were arrested in Mendiola, Manila, for allegedly hurling stones and setting tires on fire during an anti-corruption protest.

Tension at EDSA People Power Monument
At the EDSA Shrine, organizers of the “Trillion Peso March” reminded participants to keep the protest focused on corruption issues after Duterte supporters attempted to post political banners at the venue. Protesters pushed back, with marshals cautioning against turning the rally into a partisan event.

Nationwide Mobilization
The September 21 rallies extended far beyond Metro Manila. Across the country, civic, religious, and multisectoral groups staged parallel protests in solidarity.

Sources: Inquirer, Rappler, Philstar Global, Manila Standard