HOW PEOPLE CAN WIN THE FIGHT AGAINST GRAFT

Real change begins when outrage against corruption in the Philippines turns into disciplined and peaceful action

- BY JAY HILOTIN | Senior Assistant Editor

The ongoing anticorruption protests sweeping the Philippines mark a critical juncture. Mastering nonviolent resistance is essential for their success.

Why? Better lives cannot be built amid chaos. Beyond mere slogans and marches, the campaign against corruption must embody discipline, strategy, and a deep commitment to peace to truly resonate across the nation and compel meaningful change. Here's what it would take to succeed.

First and foremost, protesters must embrace active nonviolence as their foundational principle. This isn’t just about avoiding physical conflict; it’s an intentional, repeated declaration of peace that expands the movement's base.

Nonviolence has proven its power before: in the Philippines, Europe, Russia, Americas, everywhere. It disarms the corrupt’s usual tactics of fear and intimidation, empowering even reluctant individuals — especially millennials — to join the cause.

Safety — such as inviting ambulance and emergency teams from local governments — during protests, getting the necessary permits, and deescalation techniques must also be integral to organising. Crucially, peaceful protest also fosters solidarity with uniformed personnel and government actors (many of whom are silent supporters), building bridges that violent clashes destroy.