"Never Again": Martial Law Anniversary Rallies Reignite Anti-Corruption Cry in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Thousands of protesters took to the streets on Monday to mark the anniversary of Ferdinand Marcos Sr.'s 1972 declaration of martial law, turning the annual commemoration into a renewed demand for accountability and an end to corruption in government.

The rallies, held across Metro Manila and other urban centers, brought together martial law survivors, human rights advocates, student groups, and civil society organizations under a familiar but urgent banner: "Never again."

A Day of Memory and Protest

September 21 marks the day in 1972 when Marcos Sr. placed the entire country under military rule — a period that lasted until 1986 and was marked by widespread human rights abuses, media suppression, and the plunder of state coffers.

Organizers said this year's commemoration carried added weight, as public frustration over alleged corruption in contemporary governance has reached a boiling point.

"This is not just about remembering the past," one rally leader told the crowd. "This is about making sure the same patterns of abuse and impunity do not return."

Protesters carried placards naming alleged corrupt officials and calling for transparency in government transactions. Many wore black, a traditional symbol of mourning for the victims of the dictatorship.

Police Urge Peaceful Assemblies

The Philippine National Police (PNP) issued a statement reminding rally organizers to ensure that their gatherings remained peaceful and orderly. Authorities said they would respect the right to assembly but warned against any attempt to disrupt public order.

The PNP's appeal reflects the delicate balance between protecting civil liberties and maintaining security — a tension that has defined Philippine protest culture for decades.

Why This Anniversary Matters More Than Ever

For many Filipinos, the martial law era is not distant history. The Marcos family's return to political power in recent years has made the fight over historical memory deeply personal and politically charged.

Critics argue that efforts to downplay or revise the abuses of the martial law period have emboldened those who would repeat them. The rallying cry of "Never again" has thus evolved from a historical reflection into a contemporary warning.

Key themes driving this year's protests:

• Corruption: Allegations of graft and misuse of public funds remain a persistent grievance.
• Impunity: Activists say those accused of corruption often escape accountability.
• Historical revisionism: Groups warn against attempts to whitewash the martial law era.
• Democratic backsliding: Concerns over press freedom and civil liberties echo the past.

The Road Ahead

The rallies signal that civil society remains vigilant. But whether these protests translate into meaningful policy change depends on sustained pressure and institutional response.

For now, the message from the streets is clear: the fight against corruption and authoritarianism is far from over — and the lessons of martial law are not merely to be remembered, but acted upon.

As one banner read: "Hindi kami makakalimot." We will not forget.