Massive crowds rallied in Manila to demand investigations after allegations that funds for flood-control projects were siphoned off, weakening defenses and worsening flood damage. Organizers and media reported hundreds of thousands attended, signaling broad public anger. Protesters called for independent audits, criminal probes and recovery of misused funds. The demonstration increases pressure on authorities to act and improve oversight of infrastructure spending.
Massive Manila Rally: Hundreds of Thousands Demand Probe into Flood‑Control Corruption
Massive crowds rallied in Manila to demand investigations after allegations that funds for flood-control projects were siphoned off, weakening defenses and worsening flood damage. Organizers and media reported hundreds of thousands attended, signaling broad public anger. Protesters called for independent audits, criminal probes and recovery of misused funds. The demonstration increases pressure on authorities to act and improve oversight of infrastructure spending.
04:19 PM, 11/16/2025Politics
Hundreds of thousands protest in Manila over alleged flood-control corruption
Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Manila to demand investigations and accountability after allegations that officials and contractors siphoned funds intended for flood-control projects. Organizers and media outlets described the turnout as one of the largest recent demonstrations in the capital, reflecting widespread anger over perceived official negligence and corruption.
Protesters say the alleged misappropriation of public money left flood defenses incomplete or poorly built, contributing to more severe flooding and displacement during recent storms. Many marchers carried signs calling for independent probes, transparent audits and criminal charges against those responsible.
Demonstrators urged authorities to open thorough investigations and to prioritize recovering stolen funds and strengthening infrastructure to protect vulnerable communities.
The large, sustained turnout is likely to increase pressure on Philippine officials to respond publicly and to pursue accountability measures. Observers say the protests could spur legislative inquiries, formal audits and calls for improved oversight of infrastructure spending.
Context: Flood-control projects are critical for the Philippines, which faces frequent heavy rains and typhoons. Allegations of corruption in these programs—if substantiated—could have long-term consequences for public safety and trust in government institutions.