MANILA, Philippines — September 21, 2025. The Young Christian Workers of the Philippines (YCW Philippines) joined thousands of workers, students, church groups, and people’s organizations in a massive protest action at Luneta Park with the theme “Flood the Luneta”, denouncing rampant corruption in the government.

The protest fell on the anniversary of the Proclamation of Martial Law in the Philippines, a significant day for Filipinos fighting against abuse of power and impunity. This year’s mobilization took on a renewed urgency as participants raised their voices against ghost projects, misuse of flood control funds, and billions of pesos in confidential and intelligence funds allegedly pocketed by high-ranking officials.

Workers and Youth Unite Against Corruption

Carrying placards and banners with messages such as “Social Protection Ipaglaban, Tiwala parusahan!” and “Climate Justice not Corruption!”, members of YCW Philippines marched from Taft Avenue to Luneta Park to express their collective outrage. The group emphasized how corruption directly worsens the conditions of ordinary people, particularly the working class and urban poor communities, who are the first to suffer from floods and displacement during typhoons.

“Every year, billions of pesos are allocated for flood control projects. But where does the money really go? Communities continue to drown—both in floodwaters and in poverty—while politicians enrich themselves,” said Christine, one of the leaders of YCW during the rally and conversations.

Ghost Projects, Real Suffering

The protest highlighted the recent exposés on ghost flood control projects in several provinces, where funds were released but no actual infrastructure was built. YCW Philippines stressed that this is not just an issue of bad governance but of deliberate neglect and injustice.

“Workers travel through flooded streets every day to get to work. Families lose their homes during heavy rains. Meanwhile, corrupt officials live comfortably. This is unacceptable,” said Nonito, a factory and union officer from Valenzuela.

Confidential Funds Under Fire

Participants also questioned the growing allocation of confidential and intelligence funds, which lack transparency and accountability. YCW Philippines joined other organizations in calling for the realignment of these funds to essential services such as disaster response, housing, education, and healthcare.

“Ang pera ng taumbayan ay hindi para sa bulsa ng iilan. Dapat itong gamitin para sa serbisyo publiko at para sa kapakanan ng mamamayan,” John Brian mentioned during the sharing.

A Call for Genuine Accountability

As the program ended, YCW Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to stand with the people in holding government officials accountable. The organization also emphasized the need for systemic change—a government that truly serves the people, not the interests of the few.

“We are here not just to protest but to demand genuine transparency, justice, and accountability. Floods may come and go, but corruption must end,” YCW concluded in its solidarity message.