Western Visayas Marks 53rd Martial Law Commemoration with Peaceful Trillion Peso March

The Police Regional Office of Western Visayas (PRO 6) confirmed that the 53rd anniversary of Martial Law and the "Trillion Peso March" held on September 21, 2025, concluded successfully without any major disturbances across the region.

PRO 6 reported that 12 protest activities occurred, involving approximately 3,136 participants. These gatherings took place in several areas including Aklan (4 rallies), Capiz (2 rallies), Antique, Guimaras, Iloilo Province (1 each), and Iloilo City (3 rallies).

Protesters voiced their concerns predominantly regarding alleged corruption and issues with flood control initiatives. Despite the strong sentiments expressed, the demonstrations were conducted in an orderly fashion.

Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of PRO 6, extended his commendations to both the demonstrators and police forces for their discipline and mutual cooperation. He stated, "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all rallyists for exercising their right to free expression in a peaceful and responsible manner. Your cooperation allowed the activities to proceed smoothly and without incident."

Ligan also applauded the police officers for maintaining professionalism, vigilance, and tolerance throughout the events, especially during the Trillion Peso March. He attributed the incident-free proceedings to the collective discipline and unity demonstrated by everyone involved.

In preparation for the rallies, PRO 6 coordinated extensively with local government units, stakeholders, and other support groups to enforce security measures such as crowd control and deployment of Civil Disturbance Management teams. Police personnel were instructed to uphold respect for human rights and practice maximum tolerance.

Specifically, in Iloilo City, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), led by Police Colonel Kim Legada, reported no major incidents from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Approximately 3,000 individuals marched from Jaro Plaza and the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) campus before gathering at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol for a program.

Colonel Legada attributed the peaceful outcome to rigorous security planning, effective coordination with event organizers, and the cooperation of participants and the community. He remarked, "The success of today's activity reflects our shared commitment to democracy, peace, and responsible citizenship. We thank the community for their cooperation in keeping Iloilo City safe and orderly."

The ICPO commended the disciplined behavior of rally participants alongside the dedication shown by the Civil Disturbance Management team and police personnel assigned to manage the demonstrations.

Both PRO 6 and ICPO reassured the public of their ongoing commitment to safeguard citizens' rights while ensuring public safety and security throughout Western Visayas.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas also lauded the peaceful and organized execution of the march, highlighting the unity and discipline exhibited by Ilonggos and stakeholders alike. "I commend the peaceful and orderly conduct of the 'Trillion Peso March' held yesterday, September 21, 2025. The violence-free rally showed the Ilonggos' maturity as protesters, organizers, law enforcement, and the public stood united with discipline and respect," she stated.

Mayor Treñas emphasized the importance of accountability in governance, stating, "Officials and sponsors behind these palpak, delayed, and useless projects must be held accountable not only in Iloilo City but nationwide. I thank the Iloilo City Police Office, led by Police Colonel Kim P. Legada, for upholding maximum tolerance and human rights while ensuring safety. I also commend the organizers and thousands of participants whose responsible exercise of democracy sets a strong example for the whole country."

She further underscored the significance of continuing efforts to protect democracy, saying, "Yesterday reminds us that accountability and transparency must guide governance, and that people's voices are central in building a just and democratic future. Let us continue to safeguard democracy, uphold human rights, and keep Iloilo City a place where freedom thrives."