Busan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday called for peaceful demonstrations during the anti-corruption rallies scheduled for November 30, expressing hope that violence similar to the September 21 protests would not occur again.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a media briefing in Busan, South Korea, where President Marcos attended the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit, he stated that the upcoming Bonifacio Day protests are not considered a major concern. However, he expressed worries about potential agitators who might incite violence. Marcos questioned the intentions of demonstrators who bring weapons such as Molotov cocktails, highlighting the need to prevent such individuals from causing harm.
Marcos referenced the September 21 protests, during which clashes occurred between demonstrators and the police on Ayala Bridge in Manila and along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. He emphasized that violence only leads to injuries, including to police officers who are assigned to maintain peace. Marcos reiterated that the police are not present to harm anyone but to manage the crowd.
The president acknowledged the public’s anger over persistent corruption issues but stressed that violence is not a solution. He affirmed his respect for public sentiment regarding unresolved corruption and expressed understanding of the frustration stemming from the misuse of funds meant to improve people’s lives. Marcos lamented that instead of benefiting the public, funds are being diverted for personal luxuries such as airplanes and mansions.
Marcos urged those who might be inclined to incite violence to reconsider their actions, emphasizing the importance of peaceful expression of grievances.