Malacañang affirmed on Wednesday that citizens are free to take to the streets and air their grievances during the planned September 21 demonstrations, while calling on organizers and participants to ensure all activities remain orderly.
“Karapatan ninyo po ang magsalita, karapatan ninyo po ang manawagan, huwag na lang po sana maging marahas,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said during a press briefing at Malacañang.
Addressing the intent of public demonstrations, Castro acknowledged the legitimacy of public expression, noting, “Karapatan naman po ninyo na manawagan ay para madinig kung ano ang nais ninyong ipadinig at makarating sa ating pamahalaan.”
Security preparations are already in place as the Philippine National Police (PNP) readies forces for the upcoming protest actions on Monday, which mark the 54th anniversary of the declaration of martial law under the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos. The heightened vigilance follows events in 2025, when anti-corruption rallies escalated into violence, resulting in property damage and clashes after groups attempted to breach the Malacañang complex.
Responding to political calls from activist group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) demanding the President’s resignation, Castro said the organization should justify its position, emphasizing that President Marcos remains focused on his official duties while investigations into flood control irregularities proceed.
Castro highlighted recent accountability measures, pointing out that government anti-graft bodies have taken decisive action when presented with evidence. Official filings recently resulted in the arrest of high-profile figures, including former Speaker Martin Romualdez, who is currently detained at the Quezon City Jail following allegations involving over P7 billion in project kickbacks between 2022 and 2025 alongside former Representative Elizaldy Co.
“Ano pa po ba ang nais ng mga taong ito? Wala na po yata itong satisfaction,” Castro remarked regarding the persistent opposition.
“Pero still, iyan po siguro ang lagi nilang sinasabi, at sabi nga natin, may mga taong wala nang nakita kung hindi negatibo sa gobyerno at hindi natin sila mapipigilan kung iyan ang kanilang mithiin sa kanilang buhay,” she added.