Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Hundreds of students and peace advocates marched in Manila from Kalaw Avenue to the U.S. Embassy on April 28, demanding an end to military agreements between the Philippines and the United States. Led by Youth for Justice and Peace (Y4JP), the group called for the government to revoke defense deals facilitating U.S. military presence, citing foreign involvement in global conflicts as a source of economic burden on Filipinos.

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The protest took place on the 12th anniversary of one such agreement, which organizers argue links to rising oil prices and increased costs of basic goods in the Philippines. Demonstrators expressed concerns that these agreements compromise national sovereignty and entangle the country in unnecessary foreign conflicts. Calls for accountability regarding alleged human rights abuses and the pursuit of “genuine peace” devoid of foreign interference were also raised by the participants.

Organizers held a press conference before the march, launching a coalition against U.S. involvement in the war with Iran. They were joined by religious and solidarity groups advocating for peace and justice. The coalition urged more youth participation, especially from places like Parañaque, to continue promoting independence and economic justice in future demonstrations.

Moving forward, the protesters plan to expand their advocacy and outreach, aiming to build a larger movement for peace and sovereignty. These actions are expected to gather momentum, with organizers planning additional events to maintain public awareness and pressure on the government.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Manila Bulletin · 28 Apr 2026

Love the flag in the picture.

Sadly only "hundreds" of protesters.

The advantage to the U.S.of U.S. bases in the Philippines is that (1) it exerts pressure on China by posing a threat, of piracy etc., to China's maritime trade and (2) it is a means of exerting pressure on the Philippines Government.

The disadvantage to the Philippines of the U.S. bases is that the defence of that country is likely to be on a par with that afforded by the bases in the U.A.E., Bahrein, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Syria.

Edited April 29Apr 29 by ericbj

Ericbj is correct.

Need to offset Chinese:

frequent confrontations, ship rammings, and water cannon usage near the Second Thomas Shoal and Scarborough Shoal. China claims sovereignty over most of the region, while the Philippines asserts its rights over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ),

These kids need to read up on who the real threat is.