Malacañang reiterated its call on Sunday for all anti-corruption protest actions to remain peaceful, lawful, and orderly, while affirming support for public demands for accountability.
In a televised interview, Palace press officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stands with protesters in their outrage over corruption, particularly in flood control projects and would have joined the demonstrations himself if not for his position.
“Asahan niyo po na ang Pangulo ay nandidiyan. Kaya nga po hindi niya tinuloy ang kanyang pagbibiyahe (pa-US) para malaman din niya at madinig niya kung ano ang tunay na hinaing ng taumbayan [Rest assured that the President is monitoring the situation. He canceled his US trip so he can personally hear the sentiments of the people],” Castro said.
Castro also urged protesters to remain vigilant against groups that might exploit the legitimate rallies to advance personal or political agendas, calling for self-policing and cooperation with law enforcement.
She emphasized the president’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts, noting that it was Marcos who initially exposed irregularities at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and established the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) to investigate and recommend legal action.
