You’re a Filipino citizen—a taxpayer. Whether you are a student, unemployed, or a member of the labor force, you are a taxpayer of the Philippines. Because you pay the high demands of taxes, you expect it’ll be put to good use. Unfortunately for you, the country’s politicians are corrupt and selfish. Instead of serving the public using the collected funds, they spend them on themselves. Purchasing drugs here and there, treating their children to luxurious items, and maybe an umbrella paired with a Rolls-Royce. What a life, you thought. Disappointed at the government, you decided to protest in Manila—wanting to fight and speak out for your rights as a taxpayer. After all, the Philippines is a democratic country. But as soon as you arrive, the police stop you and everyone else, clashing with everyone. On Sunday, September 21, 2025, thousands gathered in Manila, Philippines, protesting over the government’s alleged mismanagement of flood projects. According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), more than a dozen people have been arrested. Until when are we going to protest against these corrupt politicians who do nothing but commit financial misconduct? As citizens and taxpayers, we must continue to demand accountability—for the betterment of the country and the future of the Filipino people. There have been countless cases of corruption in our country, dating back to the Spanish Colonial Period. Filipinos (at the time were called indios) were forced to pay tributo and bandala to allow the collection of public funds. They would work under Spanish Rule, only to continue suffering in poverty later on. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, corruption intensified during the Marcos Regime from 1965 to 1986, when wealth and key industries were monopolized by family members and political allies, leading to the accumulation of massive foreign debt. Additionally, several flood control corruption scandals emerged in 2025, making thousands of Filipinos nationwide furious with the Philippine government. It was not only because of the misused funds, but also because of the consequences that are taking place. It is not the officials facing it, but thousands of Filipino families. Being a Filipino taxpayer really is a difficult life, especially when you know that your taxes could be used for better things. Not to mention, we are also supporting different programs, such as the subsidies for senior citizens and the 4Ps (Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program). It isn’t bad to pay taxes at all because it is an obligation. But until when will we continue to shoulder the economy of the Philippines when no change or accountability has been served? As Mong Palatino, an activist in Manila, said, “...we are here to demand action from the government. We are here to demand accountability against corrupt officials in the government.” — ms. kae 08.20.26