Protests gain momentum, Bayan says Malacañang mafia should be ousted

Press statement
15 February 2008
Reference: Renato Reyes Jr., secretary general



Declaring that the Arroyo regime has been running the country like a feared mafia, umbrella group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) reaffirmed its call for Ms. Gloria Arroyo to step down as it joined forces today with the United Opposition (UNO) and other forces in the first big anti-Arroyo rally since ZTE scam star witness Rodolfo “Jun” Lozada Jr. surfaced last week.

Renato Reyes Jr., the group’s secretary general, said that the unfolding of current events “may sow the seeds of bigger actions in the tradition of “people power.”

“We are amazed and encouraged by the broadness of the opposition to this morally bankrupt regime. Anywhere we hold protest actions; ordinary people – commuters, motorists, and bystanders – show support for calls for change,” Reyes said.

“Groups of lawyers, church people, students and teachers and other professionals are expressing support for Lozada and contempt for Aroryo. These are telling signs that the people are again roused and are ready to take political action”, Reyes said.

The group said that while the Ayala rally today would pale in comparison to “people power” crowds of the past, it is nonetheless a good start for groups and individuals who are coming together in “communal action”.

“This is a good starting point for future mass actions. By that time, the numbers would have grown significantly,” Reyes said.

Bayan noted that the Arroyo regime and its spin doctors are desperate to counter the massive flow of people to the streets through its vicious orchestrated efforts to discredit and harass Lozada and his family; revive charter change (cha-cha) through the local government units; and inventing destabilization plans, including a new assassination plot on Arroyo by terrorists.

“The Malacañang crime syndicate is fearful of the rise of more protest actions. State security forces are inventing new diversions everyday in a desperate bid to scare people and cause uncertainty,” Reyes.

After the Ayala rally, some groups are already considering a follow up via the commemoration of Edsa 1 at the end of the month.

“There are no concrete plans as of yet, but it already being considered. This callous government leaves the people no choice but to continue with the protest actions,” the Bayan leader added. (END)