The expectation of protest rally organizers to drive President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. out of Malacanang did not materialize, as the simultaneous mass actions across the country were largely peaceful, despite some isolated incidents of violence and destruction of properties. In Davao City, the rally focused on supporting calls for the release of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte from the ICC prison in The Hague and demanding an end to corruption, particularly in infrastructure projects. The Davao rally also featured a giant alligator-shaped cake, symbolizing the greed of some politicians and contractors, and its slicing was seen as a symbol of the need for a Duterte in Malacanang to “slaughter” the corrupt system. However, the diversity of agendas among the protesting groups, including demands for the President’s resignation, accountability for corrupt officials, and the return of former President Duterte, may hinder their success. The lack of unity among the groups may lead to their failure, as the saying goes, “United we stand, divided we fall.” Nevertheless, the rallies may still help Malacanang in its efforts to run after corrupt individuals and groups, but sustained and peaceful protests are necessary to maintain credibility.
