In a powerful address that echoed the spirit of People Power, Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines President Cardinal Pablo David called upon thousands of participants to continue the unfinished work of the 1986 EDSA Revolution during the second Trillion Peso March.
A Peaceful Revolution Continues
The prominent religious leader spoke before a massive gathering at the People Power Monument in Quezon City on Sunday, November 30, 2025, emphasizing that the democratic ideals born from the peaceful uprising against dictatorship must be fully realized. Cardinal David stressed that the 1987 Constitution requires all government officials to maintain allegiance to the Filipino people, a commitment he believes requires renewed vigilance.
"We are here because we have to complete the EDSA revolution, a peaceful revolution — a work in progress," David declared, connecting the historical struggle for democracy with contemporary demands for governmental reform.
Direct Challenge to President Marcos
The CBCP chief delivered a pointed message to President Bongbong Marcos Jr., urging him to follow through on his commitments to combat corruption. David specifically referenced the controversial flood control projects that have raised concerns about transparency in government infrastructure spending.
"To the President... Our call is simple: get to work! Stand by what you started," the Cardinal challenged, capturing the frustration many Filipinos feel about ongoing corruption issues.
He proposed concrete action through the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI), the body created to investigate corruption across all government infrastructure projects, including the questioned flood control initiatives.
Nationwide Religious Support
The demonstration saw remarkable participation from religious organizations across the archipelago. Out of 87 dioceses and archdioceses nationwide, 86 joined the protest, demonstrating widespread institutional support for the movement's objectives. Only the Military Ordinariate of the Philippines did not participate in the sequel event to the original Trillion Peso March.
Cardinal David's leadership in the event underscores the continuing significant role religious institutions play in Philippine civil society and governance issues. His call for "truly transparent investigation" that follows evidence "without sacred cows" resonates with public demands for genuine accountability in public service.
