ILOILO City – Members of progressive organizations are expected to march to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol today as they stage a “People’s State of the Nation Address” to protest what they described as the Marcos administration’s failure to curb corruption, ease the cost of living and address the plight of ordinary Filipinos.
The protest, organized by Kahublagan Kontra Korapsyon (KKK) together with Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN)-Panay, the Jaro Archdiocesan Commission on the Laity, Pamatan-on Kontra Korapsyon, and other allied groups, will coincide with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA).
The day’s activities will begin with a forum at 8:30 a.m. at the University of the Philippines Visayas – Iloilo City Campus before participants march at around 11 a.m. along General Luna Street toward the Iloilo Provincial Capitol for a protest program. They will later return to the campus to watch President Marcos’ SONA live.
Former Kabataan Party-list representative and Kahublagan Kontra Korapsyon convenor Raoul Manuel said the mobilization seeks to spotlight what they consider the administration’s major shortcomings.
“Four years into the Marcos Jr. administration, we are still grappling with crises as prices for food, fuel, and basic goods rise while wages remain low,” said Manuel.
He added that the privatization of essential services such as water and electricity continues to burden Filipino households.
The coalition argued that many Filipinos remain dissatisfied despite government claims of economic gains, saying corruption, rising prices, stagnant wages, and inadequate support for education and healthcare continue to affect millions of citizens.
It also cited unresolved controversies involving flood control expenditures and developments surrounding Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio’s impeachment trial as among the issues fuelling public concern.
In a statement, Kahublagan Kontra Korapsyon declared:
“Four years into the Marcos Jr. administration, the people’s verdict is clear: FAILED. Failed in curbing corruption. Failed in bringing down the cost of food and basic commodities. Failed in ensuring decent wages and secure livelihoods. Failed in prioritizing education, healthcare, and essential social services.”
The group added:
“While the administration boasts of economic growth and investment figures, millions of Filipinos continue to struggle with soaring prices, stagnant incomes, heavy taxes, and worsening inequality. The true State of the Nation is not measured by glowing statistics or polished speeches, but by the daily hardships endured by ordinary Filipinos.”
Organizers said they have secured the necessary permits and coordinated with the Iloilo City Traffic Management Unit to ensure the orderly conduct of the activities. Similar People’s SONA events are also scheduled in Aklan and Capiz, as organizers call on the public to demand greater accountability and governance reforms./PN
