A mass of students from various universities across Manila gathered at the Mendiola Peace Arch on Friday, October 17, to protest what they called the worsening corruption in government.

According to RH Boy Gonzales, students from Diliman, España, U-Belt, Taft, and Intramuros marched together, carrying banners and chanting “Pondo sa edukasyon, hindi sa korapsyon!” as they demanded accountability from public officials and called for systemic change in governance.

Police officers were stationed around the area to ensure security and prevent any possible commotion as the protest intensified.

According to the protesters, the mobilization was organized in response to continuing reports of misuse of public funds.

One demonstrator said, “Dahil sa patuloy na korapsyon, ‘yong pork barrel kung saan ‘yong unprogrammed appropriations, general appropriations bill ay patuloy pa ring nangyayari sa bansa. Lumabas ulit ang mga guro ng bayan upang manindigan at mangahas kasama ang kabuuan ng One Taft, ng U-Belt para singilin at panagutin ang mga korap.”

The students also decried the lack of accountability among those allegedly involved in corruption scandals.

“Panagutin sila dahil up until now ay wala pa ring nananagot kahit malinaw na ‘yong ebidensya, hindi pa rin sila nananagot. Kumbaga sila ay nakakaligtas doon sa batas na meron tayo,” a protester added.