Construction crews were busy refining the massive stage and electrical setup beside the San Isidro Cathedral earlier this week, preparing the site for the November 30 nationwide ‘Trillion Peso March’ prayer rally and protest.
The event seeks to denounce corruption and bolster the national call for accountability amid the multibillion-peso flood control controversy gripping the government.
Malaybalay Bishop Noel Pedregosa issued a pastoral letter addressed to all priests, parishioners, lay faithful, consecrated persons, and religious organizations in the Diocese of Malaybalay, urging participation in the local counterpart of the protest.
‘As our response to the call of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to support the movement led by the Church Leaders Council for National Transformation (CLCNT), I strongly encourage you to take part in the November 30, 2025, Prayer Protest Rally, the Trillion Peso March,’ Pedregosa said.
The local rally will begin with a Holy Mass at the San Isidro Cathedral to be celebrated by Msgr. Cirilo Sajelan at 11:45 a.m. before proceeding to Plaza Rizal in downtown Malaybalay.
The bishop emphasized that the gathering is rooted in the principles of democracy and Christian faith. ‘Let us raise our collective call for authorities to impose appropriate punishment on those who plundered public funds, so justice may be served for the trillions stolen from the people,’ he said. Parishes and religious groups were asked to send delegations of five to ten participants, though the bishop clarified that all residents are invited to show solidarity by praying, voicing support, or displaying white ribbons or flaglets in homes and establishments.
Organizers have prepared a two-hour program at Plaza Rizal featuring speakers who will call on the public to ‘refuse neutrality’ amid widespread allegations of corruption and injustice.
The bishop also urged participants to reflect on personal accountability. ‘We cannot credibly demand transparency from the corrupt if we do not strive to live by the same principles,’ he said. Meanwhile, PCpt. Sheila Joy Jangad, spokesperson of the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, said police units across the province’s towns and cities will be placed on full alert to secure the Sunday protest.
She said patrol teams would be deployed, and standby units would maintain visibility until the conclusion of the activity to ensure public safety.