"Flood of Protest: Manila Rallies Against Corruption"

Hundreds of Thousands Rally in Manila Against Flood-Control Corruption Scandal In a massive show of public discontent, hundreds of thousands of Filipinos gathered in Manila's Rizal Park on Sunday, November 16, 2025, to demand accountability for a flood-control corruption scandal that has implicated powerful members of Congress and top government officials. The three-day anti-corruption rally, organized by various groups, including the religious sect Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ), is the largest protest so far against the scandal, which has been unfolding in recent months. According to reports, the scandal involves thousands of flood defense projects across the Philippines, one of the world's most typhoon-prone countries. The projects, which were meant to protect communities from flooding, were allegedly marred by corruption, with millions of dollars in funds embezzled or misused. The scandal has sparked widespread outrage, with many Filipinos calling for the resignation of those involved and for greater transparency in government spending. The rally, which drew in hundreds of thousands of people, was a testament to the growing public demand for accountability and reform. "We will not be silenced," said a spokesperson for the Iglesia Ni Cristo, who wished to remain anonymous. "We will continue to fight for justice and for the truth to come out about this scandal." The corruption scandal has been a major issue in the Philippines for months, with several high-ranking officials and lawmakers implicated in the scandal. According to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, at least 10 government officials, including several members of Congress, have been linked to the scandal. The officials are accused of accepting bribes and kickbacks from contractors in exchange for awarding them flood defense projects. The Philippine government has promised to investigate the scandal and to take action against those involved. However, many Filipinos remain skeptical, citing a history of government inaction and corruption. "We have been promised many things before, but nothing has changed," said a protester, who wished to remain anonymous. "We need real action, not just empty promises." The rally is seen as a major milestone in the fight against corruption in the Philippines. "This is a significant moment for the Philippines," said a spokesperson for the Transparency International Philippines, a non-governmental organization that advocates for transparency and accountability in government. "The people have spoken, and they are demanding change. We hope that the government will listen and take action." As the rally continues, the Philippine government is under pressure to act. The country's President has promised to take action against those involved in the scandal, but many Filipinos remain skeptical. The outcome of the scandal remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the people of the Philippines will not be silenced. In related news, the Philippine Congress has announced an investigation into the scandal, with several lawmakers calling for the resignation of those involved. The investigation is expected to be completed within the next few weeks, and the outcome will be closely watched by the public. The flood-control corruption scandal is a major blow to the Philippine government's reputation, which has been marred by corruption and inefficiency in recent years. The scandal has also highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in government spending. As the Philippines continues to grapple with the aftermath of the scandal, one thing is clear: the people will continue to demand change and accountability from their government.