In an interview, Cayetano also apologized to motorists and commuters affected by the heavy traffic caused by the protest, which coincided with the morning rush hour and led to congestion along major sections of EDSA near the People Power Monument in Quezon City. Authorities implemented traffic management measures as thousands of participants gathered and occupied portions of the highway.
“Pasensya na po sa mga nata-traffic, but protests are meant to inconvenience para magising tayo sa nangyayari,” Cayetano told reporters, reiterating that public demonstrations are meant to raise awareness of national issues.
The senator said he was moved by the spontaneous turnout of supporters, noting that some participants sacrificed work and basic needs to join the rally.
“For people to sacrifice their time, um-absent, magutom to be here, maliit na bagay na dumating tayo at makiisa,” he said.
Cayetano also raised concerns over the timing of a reported plunder complaint to be filed by the Office of the Ombudsman against his ally, former lawmaker Michael Defensor, and INC member Senator Rodante Marcoleta.
The Ombudsman earlier announced plans to file a plunder case within the week involving alleged non-disclosure of P75 million in campaign donations.
According to earlier reports, the case stemmed from campaign contributions linked to theree personalities, which were allegedly not declared during the 2025 midterm elections.
Marcoleta had previously said in a television interview that the funds were considered “personal funds” under legal interpretations since they were received before the official campaign period.
During his speech at the rally, Cayetano questioned what he described as conflicting statements regarding an alleged “mastermind” behind a separate flood control controversy, citing differing positions from Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla and Senator Panfilo Lacson.
“Si Ombudsman Boying Remulla mismo nagsabing meron mastermind… Ano po ang sabi ni Senator Lacson? Walang mastermind,” Cayetano said.
He also criticized the leadership of Senate Blue Ribbon investigations, referencing Lacson’s role in recent hearings involving former military personnel who testified in the chamber.
Cayetano further accused the administration of failing to curb corruption, despite repeated calls from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his State of the Nation Address.
“Hindi na po sila nahihiya. Sa totoo lang po, kawalang hiya na ang ginagawa,” he said.
Cayetano also warned that members of the Senate minority could face similar legal challenges following the cases against Marcoleta. He claimed he had received information suggesting that other allies, including Senator Bong Go, could be targeted next.
“Pagkatapos po ni Sen. Marcoleta, iisa-isahin na po kami… Sinasabihan na si Sen. Bong Go, ‘Ilalabas na warrant mo’… Sinasabihan na si Sen. Marcoleta, ‘Ikaw na susunod ngayong linggo.’ Ilan na lang ’yun?” aniya.
Before this, Cayetano encouraged the public to take part in protests, whether online or through small community groups.
In a Facebook Live session, the senator said that prayer and unity are important amid the issues facing the country.
“Prayer can move mountains,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste and former lawmaker Michael Defensor were among those present at the rally.
The INC-led gathering drew large crowds along EDSA, causing significant traffic disruption as vehicles and buses occupied portions of the roadway near White Plains Avenue, rendering some northbound lanes impassable during peak hours.
