As we commemorate the 127th anniversary of the Philippine independence this 12th of June, we
are reminded that true freedom remains elusive for the Filipino people.
More than a century has passed since the formal declaration of independence and yet the plight
of the Filipino people continues.
The broad influence of foreign-dictated economic policies and governance patterned after
imperialist America further entrenched the prioritization of foreign-economic interests and elitist,
dynastic control. Our national economic direction remains shaped by neoliberal
measures—privatization, deregulation, and liberalization—that have consistently benefited
foreign capital and the local oligarchy while deepening poverty, inequality, and economic
dependency.
These policies have gutted public services, weakened local industries, and left millions of
Filipinos in precarious, low-wage conditions. The current Marcos Jr. administration repeatedly
presents itself as a champion for the economic interests of the country yet shows favoritism
towards the corporate and elite agenda over the welfare of ordinary citizens. Moreover,
democratic spaces for political participation are increasingly restricted by various attacks such
as judicial persecution, surveillance and red-tagging—tools that silence dissent and shield
unjust policies from scrutiny.
This democratic backsliding seeps through to Congress, where political dynasties dominate and
use their influence to evade accountability. Blatant corruption and dubious transactions are
tolerated and serve the interests of entrenched families, allowing illegality and immorality to
persist amid public outcry. Even the current debate on whether former President Rodrigo
Duterte should be taken to the International Criminal Court (ICC) further sheds light as to what
kinds of issues the Congress prioritizes, driven by self-interests and preservation of status quo–
a violation of their sworn oaths to serve the people.
Time and again, Philippine history has shown that genuine change is only achieved through the
collective action and struggle of the Filipinos to push for reforms and accountability among
sitting administrations—from the revolutionaries of 1896 to the mass movements of today.
We call on to our fellow Filipinos to remain vigilant in asserting their democratic rights. Despite
the threats of harassment and repression, let us push forward in the fight for sovereignty, social
justice, and truly inclusive national development.
The Council for People’s Development and Governance (CPDG) is one with the Filipino people
in calling for a genuine reform, national development, and a government that truly serves the
people.
