CEBU, Philippines - Youth activists and student leaders converged at the University of the Philippines in Cebu on Saturday, September 20, to launch the Kabataan Kontra Korapsyon alliance ahead of the nationwide protests against corruption happening on September 21.

Grover Perez, convenor of the alliance, told reporters that several youth organizations from the University of San Carlos, University of the Philippines in Cebu, Cebu Technological University, Cebu Normal University, and other known educational institutions in the province will be joining the protests on Sunday, which is also the 53rd anniversary of the declaration of Martial Law.

Amid the ongoing flood control controversy, Perez said the youth leaders of Cebu had decided to unite for a common cause: to call out the abuse of public funds for malicious interests.

University of San Carlos Supreme Student Council president Maui Cruz said that it is vital for the youth to organize, mobilize, and join alliances that will stand up against corruption in the country.

"We must stand firm because our rights are never really given. They are won by the masses who are militant and are not afraid. So, we call on the youth to join us," Cruz added.

Perez said the alliance will not only join several other rights groups and advocacy organizations for the nationwide protest against corruption but also lead in the conduct of symbolic actions along Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City, in front of the Police Central Visayas Regional Office, and along Colon Street in downtown Cebu City.

"Bahaon nato ang Colon [Street] karong September 21 (We will flood Colon [Street] this September 21)," Perez said. - Rappler.com