By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Tuesday appealed to Filipinos to become more active in expressing their views on national issues, urging citizens to participate in peaceful protest activities either on the streets, within their communities, or through social media platforms.
In a livestream on Facebook, Cayetano encouraged supporters to begin with prayer, saying faith remains a powerful source of strength during difficult times. He then challenged the public to take whatever lawful action they can to help raise awareness about what he described as pressing concerns confronting the country.
According to the senator, not everyone is able to physically join public demonstrations, but every Filipino can contribute by sharing information online, engaging in discussions with family and friends, or organizing small neighborhood gatherings to voice their opinions.
He specifically invited those living in Metro Manila who were able to travel to participate in peaceful assemblies, saying public participation sends a strong message that citizens remain vigilant and willing to defend democratic principles.
Authorities earlier identified several protest sites across the National Capital Region, including the vicinity of the People Power Monument, portions of Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) near Connecticut Street and the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City, as well as Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila. Thousands of demonstrators, including members of the Iglesia ni Cristo, were reported to have gathered in the different venues.
For those unable to attend the rallies, Cayetano suggested holding small community assemblies and sharing photos or messages online to encourage broader public engagement.
During his address, the minority leader claimed there were ongoing efforts to use criminal charges to silence personalities involved in exposing alleged corruption, particularly those connected to the Senate’s investigation into controversial flood control projects.
He cited the previous detention of Jinggoy Estrada on plunder charges and expressed concern over reports that Senator Rodante Marcoleta could face a similar complaint over alleged campaign contributions amounting to ₱75 million.
Cayetano argued that if Marcoleta were charged with a non-bailable offense, the senator could be suspended from office and detained while the case is pending, preventing him from participating in Senate sessions, Blue Ribbon Committee proceedings, and the impeachment trial involving Vice President Sara Duterte.
The minority leader maintained that these developments are closely tied to the continuing controversy surrounding the Senate’s flood control investigation and the ongoing impeachment proceedings, issues that continue to fuel political tensions within the chamber.
ia/xf
