Corruption on trial: Bikolanos take a stand on November 29

NAGA CITY — A renewed wave of public frustration over corruption is expected to fill the streets of Naga City on November 29, as thousands join the Second Trillion-Peso March, a prayer-protest calling for long-delayed accountability in government. The march will converge at the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, where participants will carry the movement’s central call: “Tama na. Sobra na. Ikulong na.” Organizers say the phrase reflects growing impatience among citizens over corruption cases that remain unresolved.

Participants will begin gathering at 1:00 PM at four points: Immaculate Conception Parish in Concepcion Pequeña for south-bound contingents; Plaza Quince Mártires for north-bound groups; Ateneo de Naga University Main Campus for students and youth; and Peñafrancia Parish for east-bound participants. A synchronized march from all directions will start at 2:00 PM, bringing participants together at the Basilica grounds.

The program opens at 3:00 PM with ecumenical and interfaith prayers, followed by a solidarity program featuring messages from faith leaders, civic groups, youth organizations, farmers, fisherfolk, labor groups, and other community sectors. A Holy Mass concelebrated by priests from the Archdiocese of Caceres and the Diocese of Libmanan will take place at 5:30 PM, followed by a candle-lighting ceremony to symbolize the collective plea for truth, justice, and accountability.

Organizers have coordinated closely with law enforcement and local authorities to ensure a safe and orderly event. Nono Sto. Domingo, one of the convenors, said security will be provided by the PNP, PSO, and BFP. For logistics, the city will provide essential items such as tents, LED walls, and sound systems, while additional equipment can be rented or borrowed from private institutions.

Some have questioned whether the Trillion-Peso March can make a meaningful impact. Fr. Wilmer Tria, another convenor, said the movement is about more than confrontation:

“Hope does not disappoint. Rizal was martyred at Luneta with the hope that one day, our country will experience freedom. The protest rally is two-pronged: it puts pressure on the government while also calling for public reflection. Our tolerance, complicity, and lack of vigilance have contributed to the insatiable greed of political leaders.”

Fr. Wilmer also emphasized that the march is part of a broader, ongoing movement:

“The White Friday Protest continues nationwide, student class walkouts are taking place across the country, and we are looking ahead to the 40th EDSA People Power anniversary. More importantly, the Trillion-Peso March has grown into a sustained movement.”

Participants are encouraged to wear white shirts or white ribbons to signify unity and sincerity of purpose. Organizers stress that the march remains peaceful and prayerful, even as it expresses mounting public frustration. “There is a clear message emerging from communities,” organizers said in a statement. “People are no longer willing to look away. Tama na. Sobra na. Ikulong na ang mga corrupt.”

For coordination and media inquiries, contact Rev. Fr. Wilmer Tria at 0918-916-0298, Rev. Fr. Marc Real at 0919-626-0669, or Mr. Elmer Sto. Domingo at 0917-580-2881. Facebook: Trillion Peso March Movement – Bikol.

Organizers are calling on Bikolanos and Filipinos nationwide to participate, framing the event as a collective stand in a time of widespread concern over persistent corruption scandals.

WHEN SILENCE BECAME IMPOSSIBLE, WE MARCHED. Thousands filled the streets and church grounds during the first Trillion-Peso March, calling for an end to long-standing corruption and pushing for overdue accountability. Photo credits: Caritas Caceres and Peñafrancia Basilica.