No meat in picnic vs. pork

CEBU, Philippines - To commemorate the 41st anniversary of Martial Law in the Philippines and as part of a series of protests calling for the abolition of the pork barrel system, militant groups yesterday held a “Salu-salo sa Kabus, Bawal ang Pork” program at the Plaza Sugbo in front of the Cebu City Hall.

Protesters identified their group as the “Abolish Pork Barrel System Movement” composed of Bayan Central Visayas and allied cause-oriented groups.

The activity was highlighted by a picnic at the plaza where marchers brought and shared food, except pork, creatively signifying call to abolish the Priority Development Assistance Fund following the multi-billion pork barrel scam tagging government officials and private individuals.

The group started their protest by marching from the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda to the Plaza Sugbo where a program was held, completed with speeches and songs.

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who was in City Hall yesterday came out and spoke with the protesters. Rama has been vocal in his opinion to abolish the pork barrel system and decentralization of funds from national government through agencies to local government units.

The same group is part of the bigger group organizing the September 29 multi-sectoral and interfaith rally, the venue has yet to be finalized.  (FREEMAN)