Manila, Philippines – On the second day of the protest organized by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), many of its members remained around the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park since yesterday to join the 3-day rally to call for ‘transparency for a better democracy.’
Some of them, who were already in the area as early as Sunday morning, have already set up tents, mats and awnings along T.M. Kalaw Avenue to the grandstand to spend the night here.
One of them is Pablito Sarmiento, an INC member from La Union, who said he will remain until the last day of the rally to call for the return to the people of what was allegedly stolen by those involved in the growing corruption in the country.
Pablito added that the people are suffering because of corrupt government officials, so it is inevitable that they will stage a revolt against the government.
Despite the changing times, they still remained as a part of the 3-day rally for ‘transparency for a better democracy.’
Tess wishes for transparency in the government, because the people are suffering.
An estimated 650,000 individuals attended the first day of the 3-day ‘Transparency for A Better Democracy Rally’ of the Iglesia ni Cristo, according to the Manila Police District (MPD) and the number is still increasing.
The Manila local government has designated three areas as temporary shelters for those who joined the rally, including the San Andres Sports Complex, Dapitan Sports Complex, and Del Pan Sports Complex.
The INC clarified that their goal is not to overthrow the government, but rather a peaceful call to hold accountable those who should be held accountable for corruption.
Meanwhile, due to the ongoing rally, it is estimated that seven truckloads or a total of 19 metric tons of garbage were collected yesterday by the Department of Public Services–Manila on the first day of the rally.
This is as part of the city’s regular monitoring to ensure proper waste management during large gatherings.
The City Government of Manila continues to intensify its cleaning and clearing operations to maintain order, cleanliness, and safety in the city.
The local government ensures that the environment remains clean and safe for all residents, visitors, and attendees of the said activity.