Farmers in Mendiola question gov’t priorities amid Pax Silica, El Niño threats
A resident points at construction activity in Capas, Tarlac, the site of the planned Pax Silica Hub project, in August 2026. Raphael Bosano, ABS-CBN News MANILA — Hundreds of farmers and activists from different regions marched to Mendiola, Manila on Wednesday morning, urging the Marcos administration to prioritize their rights to land and livelihood amid the government’s participation in Pax Silica and growing concerns on the looming Super El Niño.
The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) who orgnaized the rally said it is a culmination of the week-long protests and dialogue under the Kampuhang Magbubukid 2026, just in time for the National Peasants Day.
“Buwan ng magsasaka kaya narito ang iba’t ibang magsasaka mula sa iba’t ibang probinsya para idunog yung iba’t ibang mga isyu na kinakaharap nila,” Bantay Bigas spokesperson Cathy Estavillo said.
With the effects of the very strong El Niño expected to worsen later this year and placing the agriculture sector at risk, civil society groups denounced what they described as the government’s inadequate response to the looming climate phenomenon.
“Walang komprehensibong programa para sa Super El Niño. Nakaka-insulto na sinasabihan pa ang taong bayan na mag-ipon ng mga balde,” BAYAN Secretary General Mong Palatino said.
The Marcos administration earlier announced that US President Donald Trump will visit the Philippines for the ASEAN Summit in November, which the groups said they will welcome with protests to denounce the Pax Silica initiative.
“Protesta ng bayan po ang sasalubong kay US President Donald Trump pagdating niya sa Pilipinas…Nakakagalit po na may lupa para sa Pax Silica, may tubig para sa Pax Silica… walang tubig sa ating mga komunidad pero meron para sa mga dayuhan,” Palatino added.
Instead of the usual burning of an effigy, rallyists used sickle props to destroy a banner featuring the face of US President Donald Trump and the words “Pax Silica.”
The Manila Police District said the rally had the necessary permit adding the demonstration remained generally peaceful until it ended around noon.
“Generally peaceful naman. Medyo nababawasan na dahil sbrang init. Kanina ang estimate namin more of less 1,000, ngayon medyo nababawasan na kasi umuwi na yung iba,” Manila Police District Director PBGen. Arnold Santiago said.