Protesters filled portions of Colon Street in Cebu City on Monday, Sept. 21, as progressive groups marked the 54th anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law and called for action on what they described as worsening economic, political and social problems.
Led by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Central Visayas, the protesters gathered with members of the youth, urban poor, academe, agrifisheries and other sectors for a program carrying the theme “Never Again, Never Forget.”
The groups raised issues including rising living costs, unemployment, flood control, corruption, the proposed Pax Silica initiative and alleged attacks against activists.
The demonstration also prompted negotiations between protesters and police over the conduct of the activity along Colon Street.
Protesters expressed concern that the police presence could affect their program, while police said their deployment was intended to assist with traffic coordination and maintain public safety.
The rally formed part of nationwide activities commemorating the declaration of Martial Law under then-President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Sept. 21 marks the date Marcos signed Proclamation No. 1081 in 1972, placing the entire Philippines under martial law.
The period that followed was marked by the suspension of civil liberties and documented human rights violations.
Republic Act No. 10368, enacted in 2013, recognized and provided reparations for victims of human rights violations committed during the Marcos regime from Sept. 21, 1972, to Feb. 25, 1986.
For the groups participating in Monday’s protest, the anniversary also served as a platform to raise current economic and political concerns.
In a statement, Alyansa sa mga Mamumuo sa Sugbo-Kilusang Mayo Uno (AMA Sugbo-KMU) cited the impact of high prices, low wages and unemployment on workers.
The group pointed to Central Visayas’ 8.1 percent inflation rate in August and 6.3 percent unemployment rate in July.
AMA Sugbo-KMU also criticized Cebu’s P540 minimum wage, which it described as inadequate amid rising prices. It called for a P1,200 national minimum wage and the regularization of workers.
The group also opposed the government’s proposed Pax Silica initiative, arguing that it would primarily benefit foreign interests rather than promote industrial development for Filipino workers.
AMA Sugbo-KMU further cited cases involving labor organizers and advocates as part of what it described as continuing state intimidation and persecution.
The group called for “genuine national industrialization,” saying Philippine resources should be developed to create jobs and strengthen local industries instead of relying on foreign corporations and capital.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police said it would respect freedom of speech and peaceful assembly while maintaining peace and public safety during activities marking the Martial Law anniversary.
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