Protests in Angeles City demand justice for flood control mess, honor martial law victims

By Hannah Pineda, CLTV36 News Citizen Journalist

PAMPANGA – On a day of dual protests, the streets of Angeles City were filled with urgent calls for justice, accountability, and remembrance, as residents rallied against corruption in local governance and commemorated the victims of the Marcos dictatorship.

At Nepo Quad, Kilusan Kontra Kurakot – Pampanga led a protest aimed squarely at the controversial flood control project. The group, composed of local residents, activists, and community leaders, accused the national and local political leadership of mismanaging funds allocated for flood prevention measures. 

Marching along Santo Entierro, protesters demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged misuse of public money intended for infrastructure meant to protect vulnerable communities from annual flooding.

The protest was more than just a call for accountability in one project—it was a sharp critique of systemic corruption in the local government. With banners reading, “Flood Control for the People, Not for Politicians“ the crowd made it clear that they would no longer tolerate the abuse of public resources. As the province continues to grapple with frequent flooding, the protesters demanded transparency and action from officials who they say have failed to live up to their promises.

“Where is the money? Where is the relief?” one protestor asked, pointing to the ongoing devastation caused by floods each year, despite the claimed progress of the flood control program. The message was unequivocal: the time for excuses had long passed.

Meanwhile, a separate march organized by Bayan Central Luzon saw dozens of protesters gather at Holy Rosary Parish before heading to Plaza Miranda, marking the anniversary of Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos. The march was a solemn yet powerful reminder of the atrocities committed during the dictatorship, with participants holding signs that read, “Never Again! Never Forget!”

Protestors alongside student groups and human rights advocates, came together to honor the lives lost and demand justice for those still waiting for recognition. For many of the protesters, the scars of the Marcos regime are not just part of history, they are a living reality, as the fight for accountability continues.

The rally was both a commemoration and a warning: the fight for justice is far from over. Speakers reflected on the widespread abuses during Martial Law—torture, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings and highlighted the pressing need to ensure that such abuses are never repeated. While the Marcos family has regained political power, the protesters emphasized that the lessons of the past must not be forgotten.

Although the two protests focused on different issues, their central demand was the same: accountability. Whether it was the alleged corruption in flood control projects or the continuing fight for justice for the victims of Martial Law, today’s demonstrations were a clear call for a government that is transparent, accountable, and committed to the rights of the people.

The protests in Angeles City were a reminder that, for many Filipinos, the fight for justice is an ongoing battle—one that transcends generations and refuses to be silenced. The voices of today’s protesters echoed the collective resolve: the people will not forget, and they will not rest until justice is served. #