ILOILO City – The Trillion Peso March in Western Visayas may have ended peacefully on Sept. 21, but authorities warned that heightened vigilance will continue as public outrage over alleged multibillion-peso flood control anomalies could fuel further protests.
Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) reported that 12 rallies across the region drew thousands of participants without incident, the largest turnout in Iloilo City where an estimated 2,500 marchers converged at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol after walking from Jaro Plaza and UP Visayas. Demonstrations were also held in Aklan, Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Iloilo Province.
Despite the orderly outcome, law enforcers said they remain on guard. “We remain watchful in case there are succeeding activities. Coordination with local governments and civic groups continues,” PRO-6 stressed.
Organizers said the marches sent a strong message. “The Trillion Peso March was not just symbolic—it was a warning that people are ready to take a stand against corruption in projects worth billions,” one coalition member said.
PRO-6 regional police director Brigadier General Josefino Ligan praised the discipline of both rallyists and police.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all rallyists for exercising their right to free expression in a peaceful and responsible manner. Your cooperation allowed the activities to proceed smoothly and without incident. I likewise commend our police personnel for their professionalism, vigilance, and maximum tolerance throughout the day. Because of everyone’s discipline and unity, we were able to ensure that the Trillion Peso March in Western Visayas concluded in a safe and orderly way,” Ligan said.
The timing of the Sept. 21 protests, coinciding with the anniversary of Martial Law, gave added symbolism to the call for accountability. For the police, the challenge now is sustaining order if the movement gains further momentum in the coming weeks./PN
