Martial law rallyists renew calls vs corruption

MANILA, Philippines - Sectoral groups marked the 54th anniversary of the declaration of martial law with renewed calls for accountability for corruption, saying the fight against government abuse must continue amid heightened security around Malaca ang and restrictions imposed on yesterday's protests.

Bayan president Renato Reyes Jr. and human rights group Karapatan criticized the government's security preparations for the rallies. Bayan said the anniversary should serve as a strong reminder of what he described as continuing corruption, repression and foreign influence under the Marcos administration.

Malaca ang was placed under lockdown for the expected protests, with police deploying more than 17,000 personnel in Metro Manila. The Palace said the measures were intended to ensure public safety while respecting the rallyists' constitutional right to peaceful assembly.

Reyes said the government should address corruption and other grievances that have driven people to the streets, instead of focusing primarily on the protests.