Thousands of Filipinos flooded Rizal Park on 30 November 2025. A massive nationwide protest on Bonifacio Day. They demanded justice over corruption in flood control projects. The projects that failed during typhoons Tino and Uwan. Instead of preventing floods, they worsened environmental damage. The protest, dubbed “Baha sa Luneta 2.0,” drew over 3,000 people. Several protest groups joined with ecological and civic organizations. Corruption, climate injustice, and road safety are central issues.
Make It Safe Movement (MISMO) was among the first to arrive at Luneta. The group focuses on infrastructure that prioritizes vulnerable road users. Many projects, they say, favor cars over pedestrians and cyclists. This neglect puts all Filipinos at risk. “Public safety should never be sacrificed for profit,” said MISMO spokesperson Ana Cruz. “Our roads are deadly because funds are stolen. Design priorities are wrong.”
The Concerned Artists of the Philippines performed early at 8:00 a.m. They used music and theater to highlight corruption. Their busking turned into protest art. “We sing so people remember,” said artist Luis dela Cruz. “We can’t stay silent when lives are lost to stolen funds.”
The Manila Police delayed the rest of the groups. Eventually, the thousands of protesters marched to Rizal Park. The 3,000 protesters overshadowed the police. Tagalog protest groups, labor workers, and civil society organizations gathered in Rizal Park against Philippine corruption.
Greenpeace Philippines joined the march. Its country director, Lea Guerrero, condemned the misuse of climate funds. “Corruption is killing communities,” she said. “Typhoons hit hard. But stolen funds made the damage worse.” Greenpeace called for accountability. They demanded justice for corrupt officials and contractors. They also urged action against big polluters.
Miss Earth-Water 2024, Bea Millan-Windorski, marched with Greenpeace. She stood for environmental protection. “We need real climate action,” she said. “Not fake projects that line pockets.” Her presence drew attention from younger crowds.
The protesters planned to march to Mendiola Peace Arch. But police blocked Recto Avenue at the University of the East. A barbed-wire fence barred the road. Steel van containers stood behind a line of officers. But marchers stayed peaceful. “We won’t be stopped,” said student leader Mark Tolentino. “We’re here for our future.”
The blockade drew criticism. Human rights groups questioned the police action. “The people have the right to protest,” said one observer. “Blocking them only fuels anger.”
Another mobilization began in Calamba, Laguna. Southern Tagalog groups led the call. They cited decades of neglect and corruption. Flood control projects in Laguna and nearby areas failed. Funds meant for safety went missing. When typhoons hit and drowned communities. The damage reached to ₱2.68 billion. Lives were lost. Farmers lost crops. Homes were destroyed.
Greenpeace revealed that several projects lacked proper environmental clearances. Some had forged reports. Contractors with ties to officials won bids. “This is systemic,” Guerrero said. “Reform must go deep.”
The group listed key demands. First, full accountability for stolen funds. Second, public access to all project records. This includes feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments. Third, real community participation in planning. Not just token consultations.
They also pushed for the refiled CLIMA Bill. This law would hold polluters accountable. It requires big corporations to pay for climate damage. “The rich profit,” Guerrero said. “The poor suffer. That must change.”
Thou the march ended at the police barricade. Protesters held their placards. Chanted the slogans. Had lit candles for typhoon victims. They vowed to return. “This is just the beginning,” said MISMO’s Cruz. “We want justice. We want safe streets. We want our country back.”
Bonifacio Day became a symbol of resistance. People honored the national hero who fought for truth. The “Flood at Luneta 2.0” protest showed unity. Filipinos from all walks of life stood together. Against corruption. For climate justice. For a safer Philippines.
