MANILA, Philippines —The anti-corruption rallies in Manila drew even more attention as star celebrities physically joined the massive movement, proving that the call for accountability extends beyond social media advocacy.
Young actress Andrea Brillantes (Blythe) joined the protest at Luneta Park, marching with thousands of demonstrators. On Instagram, she shared photo from the rally, reminding her followers that being involved goes beyond social media spotlight.
Meanwhile, Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes, together with Kuya Kim Atienza, Kim Molina, Jerald Napoles, and Benjamin Alves, participated in an anti-corruption running event in Ayala, Manila.
Actor Elijah Canlas, best known for his role as Cairo in Gameboys, joined the Trillion Peso March at the EDSA People Power Monument. In his speech, he declared: “Lahat tayo kumakayod, nagtatrabaho ng disente, halos magbuwis-buhay makapagbayad lang ng buwis. Tapos lahat ng pinaghirapan natin, anong nangyari? Binulsa lang!” (We all work hard, live decently, even risk our lives to pay taxes — and yet everything we’ve earned has just been pocketed!).
Singer-actress Maris Racal also made her presence felt at Luneta Park, marching with the Philippine-Palestine Friendship Association. She led the crowd in chanting: “Serbisyo sa tao, ‘wag gawing negosyo!” (Service for the people, not for profit!), before declaring, “Lahat ng korap, dapat managot!” (All corrupt officials must be held accountable).
In historical moments like these, Elijah and Maris showed that they are more than just artists. They stood as Filipinos with grit and courage, unafraid to use their voices to represent the people and demand justice. Their actions, alongside Andrea and Dingdong, simply shows how the anti-corruption movement is empowered by both ordinary citizens and influential figures who share the same fight for justice and accountability.
