Bayan urges Palace to prioritize anti-corruption over Martial Law rally concerns

MANILA — Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) on Thursday criticized the Palace for urging protesters to maintain order during demonstrations marking the 54th anniversary of Martial Law declaration on September 21, arguing the government should prioritize tackling corruption instead.

Bayan Secretary-General Mong Palatino said the administration should redirect its attention toward addressing corrupt officials and those abusing their positions of power. "The focus should be on the thieves and those abusing authority," Palatino stated, implying that the Palace had misplaced its priorities by emphasizing peace during the commemorative rallies.

The September 21 anniversary marks the declaration of Martial Law under former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1972, an event that remains significant in Philippine civil society activism. Bayan, a coalition of progressive organizations, has historically used the occasion to mobilize public demonstrations calling for accountability and reform.

The Palace had appealed to rally participants and organizers to ensure peaceful conduct during the expected gatherings, a request that Bayan viewed as deflecting from more pressing governance concerns. The group's statement reflects ongoing tensions between the administration and activist sectors over national priorities and government accountability.