Supporters of Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste joined members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) in their anti-corruption rally in Metro Manila.

Leviste had also attended the first day of the gathering on Tuesday, before returning Wednesday morning as crowds swelled for the second day of demonstrations, which organizers said could reach at least 100,000 participants.

According to a report by RH Tina Nolasco, Leviste expressed support for his constituents who traveled to Manila to take part in the rally calling for transparency, accountability, peace and justice.

More than 500 residents from Batangas’ 1st District joined the protest, echoing not only the INC’s calls but also renewing demands to scrap the value-added tax (VAT) or excise tax on fuel.

Leviste said inflation remains a major concern for many Filipinos and linked rising costs to taxation policies and alleged corruption in government.

“Yung pinaka-malaking isyu na nararamdaman ng maraming Pilipino ngayon ay actually inflation. Kaya kailangan ng VAT dahil maraming ninanakaw,” Leviste said, reiterating calls from his constituents to abolish VAT on petroleum products and to hold corrupt officials accountable.

The INC-led demonstrations, held across key areas in Metro Manila, have drawn large crowds over two days as calls for reforms and stronger measures against corruption continue.

The protest is also being held in support of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who is facing recommended charges of plunder and three counts of indirect bribery over his alleged failure to declare ₱75 million in campaign donations.