Sophia Laforteza, leader of KATSEYE, has voiced her support for the growing anti-corruption demonstrations in her home country, the Philippines.
On social media, Sophia posted a heartfelt message in response to the massive “Trillion Peso March” protests happening in Manila.
On September 22, she wrote: “My heart is with my people. We all deserve a future built on truth, integrity, and hope. Para sa ating bansa, at para sa sambayanang Pilipino (For our country and for the Filipino people) we must always strive for what is just and fair.”
Sophia shared that she is with the Filipinos even though she can not attend the protests in person, saying, “We dream of a Philippines free from corruption, where accountability and compassion guide us forward. The voice of the Filipino people is powerful and unshakable,” and added, “Even if I cannot be present in today’s rallies, I am listening, I am aware, and I stand with you.”
The protests were sparked by allegations of large-scale corruption in government-funded flood-control projects. Public anger intensified after reports claimed an estimated one trillion pesos ($17.6 billion) was lost to fraudulent practices. The outrage coincided with September 21, a date symbolically tied to the anniversary of martial law declared in 1972.
Thousands of protestors gathered in Manila over the weekend, voicing frustration over the misuse of funds in a country frequently hit by typhoons and flooding. Police and security forces were placed on high alert, with thousands of officers deployed to manage rallies in major public areas of the capital.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. acknowledged the protests and announced the creation of an independent commission to investigate the alleged irregularities. He described the situation as “horrible” and accepted the resignation of his public works secretary.
Further outrage followed when Sarah and Pacifico Discaya, a wealthy couple tied to flood-control contracts, flaunted a collection of luxury vehicles during media interviews. They later testified in a Senate inquiry, naming at least 17 lawmakers and public works officials as part of the alleged kickback scheme.
Two senators were also implicated in a separate House investigation. All those named have denied any wrongdoing, though multiple inquiries remain underway.
Meanwhile, Sophia’s group, KATSEYE has seen rapid success since their 2024 debut. With hits like “Gnarly” and “Gabriela,” a viral fashion campaign with Gap, VMAs win, and an upcoming tour, they continue to rise globally. Next year, the rising group will take the Coachella stage along with world-renowned stars.
