INFORMATIONS
IVY BETALMOS
About the Author: Ivy Betalmos is a Criminology student at Bohol Island State University – Balilihan Campus. She is a youth journalist for Kabataan For Change (KFC) and currently serves as the President of Batch Bagwis, the 4th-year graduating class of Criminology students. She is the former President of the Supreme Student Government (SSG), the Campus Student Organization(CSO), and the Aspiring Criminologists of the Philippines Society (ACOPS) of BISU–Balilihan. Ivy is also a TRAILER under YouthLead Philippines and a member of the Local Youth Development Council of Balilihan. She continues to use her voice and platform to represent the youth, promote civic awareness, and advocate for purposeful and transformative leadership.
Over 4,000 Boholanos Join Prayer Rally at Plaza Rizal to Demand Accountability
More than 4,000 Boholanos gathered at Plaza Rizal on Sunday, September 21, 2025, for a massive prayer rally and walk for integrity, accountability, and transparency in government. The event, organized by Lihok Bol-anon Batok sa Korapsyon, coincided with the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law, making the day even more symbolic for those calling for good governance. Spearheaded by the newly formed Bohol Initiatives for Good Governance (BIGG), the mass action carried the theme “Pagpakabana Batok sa Korapsyon!”
The peaceful walk began at 3:00 p.m. from three assembly points: Toni’s Barbecue along V.P. Inting Street for CSOs, NGOs, POs, and residents; in front of Camp Dagohoy along J.A. Clarin Street for students and youth groups; and at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish along Gallares Street for parish-based and religious organizations. All groups converged at Plaza Rizal in front of the Tagbilaran Cathedral where a program of speeches, cultural performances, and prayers was held. Participants wore white as a symbol of integrity, while candles were lit during the highlight of the evening—a Lighting Ceremony of Hope led by Tagbilaran Diocese Bishop and Cebu Archbishop-designate Alberto “Abet” Uy.
In his message, Bishop Uy reminded the public that the rally was not about attacking individuals but about addressing systemic corruption that continues to plague the nation. “This is not about destroying people, but about confronting a system that destroys lives,” Bishop Uy declared. He also emphasized the moral responsibility of both leaders and citizens to choose honesty over greed, stressing, “We must always choose God and integrity over corruption and impunity.” Organizers likewise reiterated that the mass action was non-partisan, non-political, and multi-sectoral, uniting civil society, schools, church groups, and ordinary citizens in the fight for justice and accountability.
Notably, the rally was also attended by Boholano singer-songwriter Joseph Gara, who stood in solidarity with fellow citizens in denouncing the reported ghost projects, substandard infrastructure, and unwarranted budget insertions that sparked outrage among the public. Gara performed his original composition, “Bayan na Walang Bayani,” a heartfelt piece that echoed the frustrations of ordinary Filipinos and moved the crowd with its call for courage, sacrifice, and true leadership. His presence and performance underscored the power of art and music in amplifying the people’s cry for change.
A significant number of young people also joined the rally, showing their strong support for the cause despite being in the middle of academic responsibilities. Many students carried placards with messages that blended conviction with youthful energy, including the striking line: “We should be studying for midterms, not fighting for bare minimum governance!” One college student shared, “Kung walay klaro ang atong gobyerno, unsaon man namo paglaum sa among kaugmaon?” Their participation highlighted how corruption and poor governance directly impact the future of the youth, motivating them to raise their voices alongside other sectors of society.
Senior citizens were also visibly present and vocal during the rally. Some carried boldly written posters that read: “Pondo alang sa katawhan, dili sa mga kawatan!” and “Sa baha, antos ang katawhan, sa pundo, hakot ang mga kurakot!”. One elderly participant emotionally declared, “Dugay na mi nag-antus, ug hangtod karon pareho gihapon ang istorya. Pero karon, dili na mi manghilom.” Their presence added a powerful reminder that the struggle against corruption spans generations, with both the young and the elderly united in demanding accountability and justice.
As the night concluded, participants dispersed peacefully, carrying with them lit candles as a symbol of their continuing call for truth, justice, and good governance. Organizers vowed that this will not be the last action, urging Boholanos to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring government projects and holding leaders accountable. For many, the September 21 prayer rally was a historic moment—one that demonstrated the strength of collective faith, unity, and courage in the fight against corruption.
Also joining the historic gathering was the youth movement Kabataan For Change (KFC), whose members actively participated and expressed their solidarity with the cause. Let’s reinforce the vital role of young people in nation-building, showing that the fight against corruption is not only for the present generation but also for the future they are striving to protect.