Public outrage regarding misspent funds on flood prevention initiatives, totaling billions of dollars, has fueled demonstrations in Manila.
Nearly 50,000 individuals gathered in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, on Sunday to protest government corruption. The demonstration was disrupted by clashes between protesters and law enforcement.
Citizens are expressing discontent over the flawed execution of numerous flood-control projects nationwide, representing an investment exceeding $9.5 billion. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. formed an independent panel in July to probe alleged “irregularities” during the projects’ implementation.
Demonstrators at Manila’s Luneta Park displayed national flags and voiced chants of “Jail them!” calling for legal action against government officials and business people implicated in the alleged corruption.
The rally turned violent when certain protesters began throwing rocks at police and igniting tires. In response, police deployed water cannons to break up the assembly.
The mayor of Manila reported that several police officers sustained injuries in the altercations and needed medical treatment. Over a dozen protesters were taken into custody.