I just came home from attending the EDSA Tayo event at the EDSA Shrine, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. It was a peaceful prayer vigil that calls for the abolition of the Pork Barrel. I left early because I was too sleepy from this morning’s shift.
The EDSA Tayo event is a mini-version of the Million People March. The main event was the mass celebrated at the EDSA Shrine itself. There were signature campaigns going on from Change.org and other groups. There were group of bikers, journalists, vendors, and people from all walks of life. The organizers of the EDSA Tayo event were there giving away copies of Inquirer Libre.
Other groups were giving away pamphlets informing the public about the Pork Barrel system. Here are some excepts from these pamphlets:
“Our PORK BARREL may be added to Salary & Wages of those in our Judiciary, NBI, PNP and Armed Forces to upgrade their moral value, a key toward attending efficient, dignified and honest form of works in their area of responsibilities favorable to all beyond discrimination.” (People’s Guardian Maharlika Anti Graft Movement)
“Stand for the Poor!
Abolish the Pork Barrel!
1. It breeds patronage politics.
2. It becomes a fat source of corruption.
3. It opens up a condition where politicians consider working in government as a business enterprise.
4. It corners the funds that should have been channeled to social services.
5. It becomes a convenient means of looting the people’s money.”
(Promotion of Church People’s Response)
“Free the budget of all Congressional and Presidential Pork!
Make the budget redress inequality and promote people’s equity.
Reorient the budget to rebuilding the national economy, addressing climate change and sovereign financing.
For a transparent, accountable and participatory budget.”
(Freedom From Debt Coalition)
“Abolish the Pork Barrel System!
Punish those who stole our money!
Remove taxes on our 13th month pay!”
(National Union of Bank Employees NUBE)
Here are some of the pictures I took of today’s event at the EDSA Shrine:
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