By Helen Castaño | 09:55 PM September 21, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY — What was once a solemn day of remembrance became a resounding cry for change as some 4,000 Boholanos marched through this city on Sunday, turning the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law into a protest against corruption in government.
The crowd—composed of students, church groups, civic leaders, non-government organizations, and ordinary residents—converged at Plaza Rizal after simultaneous marches from three points in the city. Many wore white to symbolize integrity, carrying candles that later lit the square in a ceremony of hope.
The indignation rally, organized by the Bohol Initiatives for Good Governance (BIGG) under the banner Lihok Bol-anon Batok sa Korapsyon, came in the wake of mounting public outrage over alleged ghost and substandard flood-control projects linked to the Department of Public Works and Highways.
With the theme “Pagpakabana Kontra Kurakot!” (Awaken Against Corruption), organizers emphasized the non-partisan and prayerful nature of the event. The program featured speeches, prayers, and songs, culminating in a symbolic lighting led by Cebu Archbishop-designate Abet Uy.
For participants, the gathering was both a commemoration of past abuses during Martial Law and a demand for urgent reforms in the present. “This is a call to conscience,” one organizer said, “so our leaders will know that Boholanos will not stay silent in the face of corruption.”
