Trillion Peso March: Protest Against Corruption Felt Mixed

The Trillion Peso March protests against corrupt officials yesterday would have been far more credible if they had not been crowded with traditional politicians, party-color loyalists, paid celebrities, and opportunists from the center, left, and right.

Held on September 21, 2025—the anniversary of Martial Law—the march was meant to showcase the strong voice of the people against corruption. Many citizens filled the streets with signs and chants, calling on leaders to be honest and accountable.

Photo Credit: https://colombiaone.com/ 

But the event did not appear fully clean. Old politicians were highly visible, speaking and smiling for the cameras. Supporters of different political colors turned it into a campaign parade. Some celebrities seemed paid merely to show their faces, while groups from the center, left, and right tried to use the protest for their own plans.

To make things worse, some extremists even set fires, damaged properties, and committed violent acts.

Because of this mix, the march lost the genuine feeling of a simple citizen movement. The message for change remains true, but many felt it became more about politics and attention than about truly ending corruption.

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About Me...

Preface

This poem, originally written as a reflection of my struggles, faith, and gratitude, has been lovingly edited and updated to reflect the fullness of my journey today. At first, it was a personal expression of loneliness and resilience, rooted in my trust in Allah and my deep appreciation for life’s blessings. Over time, it has also become a testament to the love I hold for my family.

In its earlier form, the poem mentioned my wife, Mouminah, and children, Mujahid and Marjanah, whose presence brought light and meaning into my life. Now, with the blessing of my youngest daughter Mysha, I have revised these verses so that she, too, is woven into the fabric of this legacy.

What was once a personal reflection is now also a family dedication, carrying my prayers, gratitude, and love for each of my children. This updated version is more than poetry — it is a record of faith, resilience, and the bonds that keep me moving forward.

My life feels heavy, quiet, and slow,
My family loves me, though at times it doesn’t show.
My friends may pass without a thought or call,
Many still judge me whenever I fall.

Under my heart lies a shadow of pain,
Upon their gestures, I feel the disdain.
Unspoken regrets return to my sight,
Ultimate chaos disturbs me at night.

All that I’ve done is to strive and to try,
All that I write is the truth I rely.
A Prophet beloved, I cherish his name,
Almighty Allah brings comfort the same.

My eyes, lips, and ears — blessings I know,
May these gifts guide me wherever I go.
Made as a servant, with gratitude true,
Merrily serving the faith I pursue.

Mouminah’s smile once brightened my day,
Mujahid’s birth stirred my soul in its way.
Marjanah’s love made my journey complete,
Mysha, my youngest, makes life ever sweet.

At last, I’ve spoken what’s deep in my heart,
And shared the feeling of being apart.
As this world rushes through its fleeting stage,
Anger consumes in this cyber-age.

Rabbī, I thank You for the gifts You bestow,
Rays of mercy through the children I know.
Raise them in faith, in Your guidance abide,
Reward our love, and keep us by Your side.

Originally posted in January 2008 but updated in 2025 to include Mysha, my youngest blessing.

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